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The Widow
A husband with secrets. A wife with no limits. A riveting novel of marriage, privilege, and lies by Kaira Rouda, the USA Today bestselling author of The Next Wife.
Jody Asher had a plan. Her charismatic husband, Martin, would be a political icon. She, the charming wife, would fuel his success. For fifteen congressional terms, they were the golden couple on the Hill. Life was good. Until he wasn’t.
Martin’s secret affair with a young staffer doesn’t bother Jody personally. But professionally? It’s a legacy killer. Soon a reporter gets word of this scandal in the making, and Martin’s indiscretions threaten to ruin everything Jody has accomplished.
When Martin suddenly dies, it’s a chance to change the narrative—but the reporter won’t let go of his lead. As the balance of power shifts in the Asher house and on the Hill, it’s time for Jody to take control. And there’s nothing the ruthless widow won’t do to secure the future she’s entitled to. Even if she has a secret of her own.
Jody Asher had a plan. Her charismatic husband, Martin, would be a political icon. She, the charming wife, would fuel his success. For fifteen congressional terms, they were the golden couple on the Hill. Life was good. Until he wasn’t.
Martin’s secret affair with a young staffer doesn’t bother Jody personally. But professionally? It’s a legacy killer. Soon a reporter gets word of this scandal in the making, and Martin’s indiscretions threaten to ruin everything Jody has accomplished.
When Martin suddenly dies, it’s a chance to change the narrative—but the reporter won’t let go of his lead. As the balance of power shifts in the Asher house and on the Hill, it’s time for Jody to take control. And there’s nothing the ruthless widow won’t do to secure the future she’s entitled to. Even if she has a secret of her own.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2022
About the author
Kaira Rouda
40 books2,554 followersKaira Rouda is a USA TODAY and Amazon Charts bestselling author of contemporary fiction exploring beneath the surface of seemingly perfect lives. Her suspense novels include BEST DAY EVER, THE FAVORITE DAUGHTER, ALL THE DIFFERENCE, THE NEXT WIFE and SOMEBODY'S HOME. Her next novel, THE WIDOW, is out December 1, 2022.
She lives in Southern California with her family and is at work on her next novel. Connect with her on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest: @KairaRouda; and on Facebook at Kaira Rouda Books.
If you'd like to host Kaira at your book club, please reach out through her website KairaRouda.com
Sign up to receive a monthly email from Kaira with exclusive sales news, book excerpts, sweepstakes, and giveaways at: kairarouda.com/signup/
She lives in Southern California with her family and is at work on her next novel. Connect with her on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest: @KairaRouda; and on Facebook at Kaira Rouda Books.
If you'd like to host Kaira at your book club, please reach out through her website KairaRouda.com
Sign up to receive a monthly email from Kaira with exclusive sales news, book excerpts, sweepstakes, and giveaways at: kairarouda.com/signup/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 967 reviews
January 6, 2023
3.5*
Jody has big political aspirations! Probably more so than her long standing congressional husband, Martin Asher.
But Jody has her hands full keeping the home fires burning as well. And that’s not an easy task. Beginning with her daughters’ wedding this weekend, destined to be the biggest social event in Washington. And then there is her husband being spotted with a younger staff member. And let’s not forget the fresh-faced politician who wants Martin’s seat!
All this is about to come to a head when Martin suddenly dies, leaving Jody a very powerful widow. If she can take full advantage of the situation…this just may play out perfectly in her favor!
As in all Kaira Rouda books, the female lead is always sharp, powerful with maybe just a hint of being a sociopath. And I love each one of them!🤣. Not sure what that says about me... Anyhoo…
While I loved Jody’s character and her ability to manipulate everyone to her own advantage, I had a bit of trouble warming up to this book. Especially in comparison to her previous works.
Personally, I think it was because it was centered around politics, which I truly loathe. But if you can handle the political backstabbing and antics you may come away loving this latest!
A buddy read with Susanne!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer
Jody has big political aspirations! Probably more so than her long standing congressional husband, Martin Asher.
But Jody has her hands full keeping the home fires burning as well. And that’s not an easy task. Beginning with her daughters’ wedding this weekend, destined to be the biggest social event in Washington. And then there is her husband being spotted with a younger staff member. And let’s not forget the fresh-faced politician who wants Martin’s seat!
All this is about to come to a head when Martin suddenly dies, leaving Jody a very powerful widow. If she can take full advantage of the situation…this just may play out perfectly in her favor!
As in all Kaira Rouda books, the female lead is always sharp, powerful with maybe just a hint of being a sociopath. And I love each one of them!🤣. Not sure what that says about me... Anyhoo…
While I loved Jody’s character and her ability to manipulate everyone to her own advantage, I had a bit of trouble warming up to this book. Especially in comparison to her previous works.
Personally, I think it was because it was centered around politics, which I truly loathe. But if you can handle the political backstabbing and antics you may come away loving this latest!
A buddy read with Susanne!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer
November 21, 2022
The synopsis summed it up nicely - marriage, privilege, and lies. Who is telling the biggest lie? Who can be trusted? Who will remain on top? Set in Washington D.C., Martin and Jody are a golden political couple. Martin has been in politics for a long time! They are the Ashers after all and nothing can bring them down! They have money, a beautiful daughter, a long marriage, and appear to be on top of the world. Then a journalist starts asking questions, and it appears that all that glitters is not gold. There is talk of an affair with a younger member of staff and that is just the tip of the iceberg.
Both are feeling the heat and the pressure. Martin does not look well, and Jody just hopes that their daughter's wedding goes off without a hitch. But it goes off more like a bomb when Martin dies. Jody is now in the catbird seat (she always has been, just ask her) and ready to start over! But will the future be bright or is her legacy tarnished?
This one began strongly for me, and I enjoyed learning Jody's thoughts - they are devious, conniving and show how power hungry she is. Martin (think Bill Clinton) is a charming man who has gotten his way and does what he wants to a degree and well, he is in the middle of a mess in the beginning of this book. Mimi, a powerful member of their staff, also shares her thoughts which provides more insight toward the end of the book.
The characters are a mess, but they are supposed to be. They are not likeable, except the daughter who came off as very naïve to me. This is lifestyles of the rich and famous Kaira Rouda style. We get to see into a political family’s lives, see their inner workings, their faults, messes, arrogance, deviousness, and thirst for power. Consequences be damned, they are going to do what they want when they want with a fake smile plastered on their faces.
Sounds good right? I thought I would love, love, love this book! The description sounded so enticing. I also enjoyed the words of advice that Jody had for spouses throughout the book. But this went from a 4-star read to a 3-star read. Why? I can't pinpoint one single thing; it just became more like a tv movie of the week. It went off the rails a little and although, I still enjoyed it, it failed to wow me. There are a few twists at the end which I did not see coming. Will I remember it in months to come? I'm not sure.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer 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
Both are feeling the heat and the pressure. Martin does not look well, and Jody just hopes that their daughter's wedding goes off without a hitch. But it goes off more like a bomb when Martin dies. Jody is now in the catbird seat (she always has been, just ask her) and ready to start over! But will the future be bright or is her legacy tarnished?
This one began strongly for me, and I enjoyed learning Jody's thoughts - they are devious, conniving and show how power hungry she is. Martin (think Bill Clinton) is a charming man who has gotten his way and does what he wants to a degree and well, he is in the middle of a mess in the beginning of this book. Mimi, a powerful member of their staff, also shares her thoughts which provides more insight toward the end of the book.
The characters are a mess, but they are supposed to be. They are not likeable, except the daughter who came off as very naïve to me. This is lifestyles of the rich and famous Kaira Rouda style. We get to see into a political family’s lives, see their inner workings, their faults, messes, arrogance, deviousness, and thirst for power. Consequences be damned, they are going to do what they want when they want with a fake smile plastered on their faces.
Sounds good right? I thought I would love, love, love this book! The description sounded so enticing. I also enjoyed the words of advice that Jody had for spouses throughout the book. But this went from a 4-star read to a 3-star read. Why? I can't pinpoint one single thing; it just became more like a tv movie of the week. It went off the rails a little and although, I still enjoyed it, it failed to wow me. There are a few twists at the end which I did not see coming. Will I remember it in months to come? I'm not sure.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer 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
May 1, 2022
It took me a little while to sort through my feelings about this drama-filled read. You know when you read a book that gives you conflicting feelings from page to page? When I began this book it immediately felt shockingly retro with its tips for decorum for Congressional wives. (Hello, there are women in Congress now!) But I soon realized this dinosaur mentality was intentional and belonged to our narrator, not the author. Still, though, it unfortunately made for a character I was annoyed with from the start.
Then however, I got caught up in the fun and drama of the plot. And then some kind of cliche political subplot would peeve me. And then I would go back to enjoying the writing again. And then the main character world annoy me yet again. Such was my relationship with The Widow (both the book and the character).
First let it be said that I really enjoy Kaira Rouda's books (which I have read all of!) and always love her writing style. Her protagonists are devious and unapologetic, and her narrator's voices are always unique and compelling. The narrator of this book, Jody, is no exception. She's a congressman's wife and an old-fashioned lady who has always wanted to grab her power by puppeteering the world through the political clutches of her husband. Jody is fun but very irritating, particularly for me as a Democrat because she reads like the demonic ball-busting cliche many people believe some famous and powerful Democratic women to be. My irritation over the way Democrats were portrayed in this book actually led me to Google the author for the first time and I learned that she was actually a Congressional spouse herself, and was married to a Democratic member of Congress, Harley Rouda. What! Like, what? How did I never know this all this time I have been enjoying her books?? And how does a Democratic Congressional spouse write a book about so many evil Democrats? (That's a hypothetical question, don't anybody answer for god's sake, I don't want to know.)
Anyway, when I wasn't irate over feeling like I was just reading Madison Cawthorne's secret diary about what he KNOWS Hillary Clinton is REALLY like, or wondering about what decade this book was supposed to be taking place in (don't get me started on the international plot points in this book which were also straight out of the 1950s), I was laughing, because of course Kaira Rouda is really funny. I just wish she had found a way to make Jody less of an evil caricature and a little more likable and complex. Rouda is usually SO good at likable psychopaths (see, e.g., Best Day Ever) but the psychopath narrating most of this one just did not work for me, and I was just annoyed at her most of the time.
Still an entertaining read by a very skilled writer - but I just couldn't get fully invested in the character or suspend my disbelief. Also want to note that it's not really a mystery or even what I'd call suspense, but more of a political drama. But listen, it's a page-turner, and if you're more on the right-hand side of the aisle, or if you are just less touchy than I am about how powerful political women are portrayed, you will probably like this one more than I did. It's very well-written and fast paced. I'll definitely keep reading whatever Kaira Rouda writes. 3.5 stars rounded down.
Then however, I got caught up in the fun and drama of the plot. And then some kind of cliche political subplot would peeve me. And then I would go back to enjoying the writing again. And then the main character world annoy me yet again. Such was my relationship with The Widow (both the book and the character).
First let it be said that I really enjoy Kaira Rouda's books (which I have read all of!) and always love her writing style. Her protagonists are devious and unapologetic, and her narrator's voices are always unique and compelling. The narrator of this book, Jody, is no exception. She's a congressman's wife and an old-fashioned lady who has always wanted to grab her power by puppeteering the world through the political clutches of her husband. Jody is fun but very irritating, particularly for me as a Democrat because she reads like the demonic ball-busting cliche many people believe some famous and powerful Democratic women to be. My irritation over the way Democrats were portrayed in this book actually led me to Google the author for the first time and I learned that she was actually a Congressional spouse herself, and was married to a Democratic member of Congress, Harley Rouda. What! Like, what? How did I never know this all this time I have been enjoying her books?? And how does a Democratic Congressional spouse write a book about so many evil Democrats? (That's a hypothetical question, don't anybody answer for god's sake, I don't want to know.)
Anyway, when I wasn't irate over feeling like I was just reading Madison Cawthorne's secret diary about what he KNOWS Hillary Clinton is REALLY like, or wondering about what decade this book was supposed to be taking place in (don't get me started on the international plot points in this book which were also straight out of the 1950s), I was laughing, because of course Kaira Rouda is really funny. I just wish she had found a way to make Jody less of an evil caricature and a little more likable and complex. Rouda is usually SO good at likable psychopaths (see, e.g., Best Day Ever) but the psychopath narrating most of this one just did not work for me, and I was just annoyed at her most of the time.
Still an entertaining read by a very skilled writer - but I just couldn't get fully invested in the character or suspend my disbelief. Also want to note that it's not really a mystery or even what I'd call suspense, but more of a political drama. But listen, it's a page-turner, and if you're more on the right-hand side of the aisle, or if you are just less touchy than I am about how powerful political women are portrayed, you will probably like this one more than I did. It's very well-written and fast paced. I'll definitely keep reading whatever Kaira Rouda writes. 3.5 stars rounded down.
November 13, 2022
Well, that was certainly dramatic. Did I like it? Not really. I liked the start very much as it was snarky and darkly funny which worked with the short sharp chapters. However, the very unlikeable characters and their machinations began to pall and I’m sorry to say I’ve got very bored. Awful people, awful actions, it lacked tension or excitement and it became a political ploddy yawn fest.
PS I did enjoy Jody Ashers tips but wondering about the D-Oh? Was she channelling her inner Homer? Nope, dozy Ceecee. Democrat, Ohio. D’Oh.
PPS American politics are a mystery to many outsiders and yes I’m still puzzled!
PS I did enjoy Jody Ashers tips but wondering about the D-Oh? Was she channelling her inner Homer? Nope, dozy Ceecee. Democrat, Ohio. D’Oh.
PPS American politics are a mystery to many outsiders and yes I’m still puzzled!
November 27, 2022
For fifteen terms, Congressman Martin Asher and his wife Jody were the golden couple on Capitol Hill. When Martin suddenly dies, it’s time for Jody to take control. And there’s nothing the ruthless widow won’t do to secure the future she’s entitled to.
Despite the fact that as a Canadian I find the United States government structure a total mystery, I enjoyed this book. Jody Asher is a self-admitted sociopath who wants to be in a powerful position, whether it be as a Congressman's wife or as his replacement following his death. She's not at all likeable but she's certainly a strong, confident person. I was reminded somewhat of the movie "Gaslit" about Martha Mitchell, the Cabinet wife who spoke out during Watergate.
The story is told from the viewpoints of Martin, Jody and Mimi Smith, a lobbyist who has been friends with the Ashers for many years and a woman with power of her own in Washington. Interspersed with their viewpoints are tips for newbies to the world of politics and Washington DC. This quick read is one of Kaira Rouda's better books of late but "Best Day Ever" is still my all-time favourite. It was interesting to read in the Acknowledgments that the author's husband served in the U.S. Congress at one time.
My thanks to Thomas & Mercer via Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this novel. Publication date is December 1, 2022.
Despite the fact that as a Canadian I find the United States government structure a total mystery, I enjoyed this book. Jody Asher is a self-admitted sociopath who wants to be in a powerful position, whether it be as a Congressman's wife or as his replacement following his death. She's not at all likeable but she's certainly a strong, confident person. I was reminded somewhat of the movie "Gaslit" about Martha Mitchell, the Cabinet wife who spoke out during Watergate.
The story is told from the viewpoints of Martin, Jody and Mimi Smith, a lobbyist who has been friends with the Ashers for many years and a woman with power of her own in Washington. Interspersed with their viewpoints are tips for newbies to the world of politics and Washington DC. This quick read is one of Kaira Rouda's better books of late but "Best Day Ever" is still my all-time favourite. It was interesting to read in the Acknowledgments that the author's husband served in the U.S. Congress at one time.
My thanks to Thomas & Mercer via Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this novel. Publication date is December 1, 2022.
June 29, 2023
Politics, scandals, secrets, and privilege dominate this intense thriller. Everything seems perfect until it isn’t. Power can be a deadly drug when appearances can make or break the carefully crafted facade. This thriller gripped me immediately. Kaira Rouda never disappointments and this book is no exception. I definitely recommend this addictive, twisty thriller. Thank you, NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer for my copy.
November 20, 2022
I have long been a fan of Kaira Rouda thrillers, always fun and addictive to read. The Widow was a different read from her, as it was set in the world of politics in DC. Now, everything I know about US politics comes from watching The West Wing and House of Cards. So, it did take a little while to get into this story with so much political jargon. It was still and enjoyable read, with some very unlikeable characters (as you would expect in a political book!)
Jody and Martin Asher are part of the furniture in DC. Martin is a well-liked and successful congressman, and his wife Jody has been there every step of the way. But now it appears that Martin has been a naughty boy and the press have got wind of the story. He is about to be exposed - and then he dies suddenly. Jody can't imagine life anywhere else, so she has to make a decision about her future and will stop at nothing to get what she wants.
Thanks to Thomas and Mercer and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes December 1st
Jody and Martin Asher are part of the furniture in DC. Martin is a well-liked and successful congressman, and his wife Jody has been there every step of the way. But now it appears that Martin has been a naughty boy and the press have got wind of the story. He is about to be exposed - and then he dies suddenly. Jody can't imagine life anywhere else, so she has to make a decision about her future and will stop at nothing to get what she wants.
Thanks to Thomas and Mercer and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes December 1st
November 16, 2022
Shortest review ever!
Um - where do I start with this? I did like the cover. And I enjoyed an earlier book by the author, Best Day Ever, but that’s kind of where it ended for me!
Okay, it wasn’t too bad until the death occurred. With that title you would expect someone to die right? But - oh my, the main character, Jody, was one of the most insufferable, selfish, mean, toxic people you could ever meet. And boring - it was all about her and I couldn’t even finish it without a break to read something more interesting!
I don’t know what else to say. I didn’t like this book. At all. I felt tainted by Jody’s meanness and selfishness. When things didn’t go her way what did she do - plotted revenge, eye roll. I imagine some people enjoyed it but it but I wasn’t one of them. Many thanks to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
Um - where do I start with this? I did like the cover. And I enjoyed an earlier book by the author, Best Day Ever, but that’s kind of where it ended for me!
Okay, it wasn’t too bad until the death occurred. With that title you would expect someone to die right? But - oh my, the main character, Jody, was one of the most insufferable, selfish, mean, toxic people you could ever meet. And boring - it was all about her and I couldn’t even finish it without a break to read something more interesting!
I don’t know what else to say. I didn’t like this book. At all. I felt tainted by Jody’s meanness and selfishness. When things didn’t go her way what did she do - plotted revenge, eye roll. I imagine some people enjoyed it but it but I wasn’t one of them. Many thanks to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
December 14, 2021
Can't wait for you to read my latest suspense novel, my first set in Washington, DC. Thank you, as always, for reading!
November 12, 2022
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: December 1, 2022
Jody Asher is the perfect political wife; she has stood by her husband, Martin, while he held a congressman spot for fifteen congressional terms. Even when his reputation was slowly sullied by rumours of payoffs, dirty business deals, and sordid affairs, Jody was convinced her and Martin would remain the Golden Couple of the Hill. Even though Jody was slowly poisoning him, she is surprised when Martin drops dead the night of their daughter’s wedding, and soon Jody is trying to fill Martin’s shoes. Jody battles political allies, enemies and staffers to ensure her rise to the top remains unsullied, and she will stop at nothing to achieve her personal goals.
Kaira Roudanewest political suspense novel, “The Widow” is chock full of political intrigue, conspiracy and manipulation. I enjoyed Rouda’s novel, “Somebody's Home”, but I didn’t know what to expect going into this one. Being a Canadian with a different political structure than the one featured, I wasn’t sure how invested I could be in a story based entirely in U.S governmental politics, but Rouda did not disappoint.
Jody is a sociopath and openly admits to spending time mimicking those around her, trying to learn how to feel (or at least make it look that way). Martin is her perfect match, willing to take the direction and occasional ire of his wife to ensure his success continues. These two are Democratic representatives from Ohio, but they could, in truth, be from any party in any locale.
Both Jody and Martin narrate the story and, after Martin’s death, Jody continues on, with her confidante and political ally, Mimi, telling her side of the story. There is a lot of politics, obviously, with different congressional meetings, representatives, and governmental shindigs, but underneath it all there is scheming, manipulation and just plain evil plotting- and I loved it.
Somehow Rouda manages to throw a totally believable and unexpected twist into the plot, which left me gasping. I even ended up rooting for Jody, and cheering her on in all of her underhanded schemes. “The Widow” is a deep dive into the nitty gritty world of U.S politics, told from a fictional insider’s perspective, and it is completely believable in every way. I didn’t expect to enjoy this novel as much as I did, and I applaud Rouda for her creative talent.
Expected publication date: December 1, 2022
Jody Asher is the perfect political wife; she has stood by her husband, Martin, while he held a congressman spot for fifteen congressional terms. Even when his reputation was slowly sullied by rumours of payoffs, dirty business deals, and sordid affairs, Jody was convinced her and Martin would remain the Golden Couple of the Hill. Even though Jody was slowly poisoning him, she is surprised when Martin drops dead the night of their daughter’s wedding, and soon Jody is trying to fill Martin’s shoes. Jody battles political allies, enemies and staffers to ensure her rise to the top remains unsullied, and she will stop at nothing to achieve her personal goals.
Kaira Roudanewest political suspense novel, “The Widow” is chock full of political intrigue, conspiracy and manipulation. I enjoyed Rouda’s novel, “Somebody's Home”, but I didn’t know what to expect going into this one. Being a Canadian with a different political structure than the one featured, I wasn’t sure how invested I could be in a story based entirely in U.S governmental politics, but Rouda did not disappoint.
Jody is a sociopath and openly admits to spending time mimicking those around her, trying to learn how to feel (or at least make it look that way). Martin is her perfect match, willing to take the direction and occasional ire of his wife to ensure his success continues. These two are Democratic representatives from Ohio, but they could, in truth, be from any party in any locale.
Both Jody and Martin narrate the story and, after Martin’s death, Jody continues on, with her confidante and political ally, Mimi, telling her side of the story. There is a lot of politics, obviously, with different congressional meetings, representatives, and governmental shindigs, but underneath it all there is scheming, manipulation and just plain evil plotting- and I loved it.
Somehow Rouda manages to throw a totally believable and unexpected twist into the plot, which left me gasping. I even ended up rooting for Jody, and cheering her on in all of her underhanded schemes. “The Widow” is a deep dive into the nitty gritty world of U.S politics, told from a fictional insider’s perspective, and it is completely believable in every way. I didn’t expect to enjoy this novel as much as I did, and I applaud Rouda for her creative talent.
November 20, 2022
Jody Asher defines her life by her husband, Martin, a well-known congressman. She loves the status that comes with his position. Jody is throwing a wedding for their daughter and it's about to be the event of the year. But everything changes when scandal hits Martin--there's a rumor he's sleeping with a young intern and has dirty political ties to other countries. Then Martin dies and Jody truly stands to lose everything.
Ugh, I hate when I do not care for a book, but I just did not like this one! I almost DNF'd this one, but I kept hoping it would improve. And it did pick up a bit near the end, but things never truly gelled for me. THE WIDOW featured stilted writing, despicable characters, and--worst of all--nothing happened for the first half of the book! It's called THE WIDOW, but nothing happens to Martin until the halfway point (despite it appearing in the book summary and title). I just kept waiting and waiting for something exciting to happen!
Jody is billed as a psychopath character, but THE WIDOW did not take it far enough for me. If you are going to go that path, own it! The plot jumps around, trying to play spy thriller, lobbyist saga, and then tossing in their daughter and her wedding occasionally. Even better, somehow everyone went to school together! Martin, Jody, the Vice President, his wife went to college together, and then magically, Martin and their daughter's father went to high school together. Oh, the coincidences abound! It was way too much to believe.
There was a decent enough wild twist here at the end, but it couldn't redeem this story. There are boring "tips for congressional spouses" thrown in between every chapter that I eventually started to skim. Overall, I wish I had skimmed the whole thing. 2 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Thomas&Mercer and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
Ugh, I hate when I do not care for a book, but I just did not like this one! I almost DNF'd this one, but I kept hoping it would improve. And it did pick up a bit near the end, but things never truly gelled for me. THE WIDOW featured stilted writing, despicable characters, and--worst of all--nothing happened for the first half of the book! It's called THE WIDOW, but nothing happens to Martin until the halfway point (despite it appearing in the book summary and title). I just kept waiting and waiting for something exciting to happen!
Jody is billed as a psychopath character, but THE WIDOW did not take it far enough for me. If you are going to go that path, own it! The plot jumps around, trying to play spy thriller, lobbyist saga, and then tossing in their daughter and her wedding occasionally. Even better, somehow everyone went to school together! Martin, Jody, the Vice President, his wife went to college together, and then magically, Martin and their daughter's father went to high school together. Oh, the coincidences abound! It was way too much to believe.
There was a decent enough wild twist here at the end, but it couldn't redeem this story. There are boring "tips for congressional spouses" thrown in between every chapter that I eventually started to skim. Overall, I wish I had skimmed the whole thing. 2 stars.
I received a copy of this book from Thomas&Mercer and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
September 5, 2023
Check out my Q&A with Kaira: #AuthorElevatorSeries Interview where we go behind the scenes of the book and the author!
The "Queen" of psychological suspense thrillers, Kaira Rouda, returns following Somebody's Home (5 stars) with her first book—set in Washington, DC—THE WIDOW, inspired after spending time with her husband in Washington when he was elected to Congress in 2018.
Get ready for this unputdownable political thriller with scandal, glitz, and glamour on Capitol Hill and Kaira's signature deviously wicked, ruthless characters combined with the dark humor she is known for!
In THE WIDOW, Rouda imagines how this unofficial tradition in American politics where women are either appointed or elected to fill their late husbands' Congressional seats —can help prove how far a wife will go to hide her husband's traitorous secrets and protect her family's legacy.
How this idea can lead to the ultimate perilous power struggle.
THE WIDOW centers around a scheming, ruthless power-driven wife who plots to off her congressman husband after discovering he's been having an affair with a young staffer.
Meet Jody and Martin Asher. They are the "golden" power couple on the Hill. Martin has served 15 congressional terms, and he and his wife, Jody, enjoy the good life.
Jody loves all the prestige and power of being a Capitol Hill wife, and their daughter is about to be married. This will be a huge event with no expense spared.
Their only daughter, Charlotte, is getting married in what will be a DC society wedding. At the same time, reporters threaten to publish a story that may ruin Martin's political career.
There is much stress surrounding the wedding costs, and of course, Jody is focused on appearances and how to preserve political power. There is also the family of the groom to worry about.
However, Martin has a secret affair with a young staffer, Sarah. She is an intern, new, gorgeous, and a big flirt. Jody will not have this ruin her perfectly constructed life. She has to keep up appearances.
Jody Asher, whose spot atop the pinnacle of DC power, is compromised when a reporter threatens to expose her congressman husband's affair. A suspicious heart attack follows as Jody seeks to cling to her husband's seat.
The book title is an allusion to the "Widow's Mandate" — a common US political practice in which wives often take up the jobs of their deceased husbands who held public office.
When Martin dies suddenly and unexpectedly, what lengths will Jody go to preserve his legacy?
It is a chance to change the narrative,― but the reporter won't let go of his lead. As the balance of power shifts in the Asher house and on the Hill, it's time for Jody to take control. And there's nothing the ruthless widow won't do to secure the future she's entitled to. Even if she has a secret of her own.
What a great book! Rouda is perfect for penning this one with her first-hand experience in Washington. It has all the drama, scandal, politics, greed, deceit, cutthroat, corruption, secrets, lies, and power you expect with her novels.
The author draws you in with her character's manipulation and power combined with dark wit. Readers will love/hate Jody as she lines up perfectly with Rouda's characters from previous books with all her backstabbing and trickery.
Kaira creatively opens each chapter with fascinating, helpful tips for new Congressional spouses and staffers, which are so much fun.
Smart and timely, this book will pull you in from the first page and keep you turning into the wee hours of the morning.
Visceral and alluring, THE WIDOW is a riveting novel about marriage, privilege, power, and lies in the cutthroat world of international politics.
A massive fan of the author and have read all her books. No one can spin a story like Kaira! Highly recommend each of them.
A special thank you to #ThomasandMercer and #NetGalley for an eARC to read, review, and enjoy.
Blog Review Posted @
www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 🌟 STARS
Pub Date: Dec 1, 2022
Top Books of 2022
Dec 2022 Must-Read Books
#AuthorElevatorSeries Interview
The "Queen" of psychological suspense thrillers, Kaira Rouda, returns following Somebody's Home (5 stars) with her first book—set in Washington, DC—THE WIDOW, inspired after spending time with her husband in Washington when he was elected to Congress in 2018.
Get ready for this unputdownable political thriller with scandal, glitz, and glamour on Capitol Hill and Kaira's signature deviously wicked, ruthless characters combined with the dark humor she is known for!
In THE WIDOW, Rouda imagines how this unofficial tradition in American politics where women are either appointed or elected to fill their late husbands' Congressional seats —can help prove how far a wife will go to hide her husband's traitorous secrets and protect her family's legacy.
How this idea can lead to the ultimate perilous power struggle.
THE WIDOW centers around a scheming, ruthless power-driven wife who plots to off her congressman husband after discovering he's been having an affair with a young staffer.
Meet Jody and Martin Asher. They are the "golden" power couple on the Hill. Martin has served 15 congressional terms, and he and his wife, Jody, enjoy the good life.
Jody loves all the prestige and power of being a Capitol Hill wife, and their daughter is about to be married. This will be a huge event with no expense spared.
Their only daughter, Charlotte, is getting married in what will be a DC society wedding. At the same time, reporters threaten to publish a story that may ruin Martin's political career.
There is much stress surrounding the wedding costs, and of course, Jody is focused on appearances and how to preserve political power. There is also the family of the groom to worry about.
However, Martin has a secret affair with a young staffer, Sarah. She is an intern, new, gorgeous, and a big flirt. Jody will not have this ruin her perfectly constructed life. She has to keep up appearances.
Jody Asher, whose spot atop the pinnacle of DC power, is compromised when a reporter threatens to expose her congressman husband's affair. A suspicious heart attack follows as Jody seeks to cling to her husband's seat.
The book title is an allusion to the "Widow's Mandate" — a common US political practice in which wives often take up the jobs of their deceased husbands who held public office.
When Martin dies suddenly and unexpectedly, what lengths will Jody go to preserve his legacy?
It is a chance to change the narrative,― but the reporter won't let go of his lead. As the balance of power shifts in the Asher house and on the Hill, it's time for Jody to take control. And there's nothing the ruthless widow won't do to secure the future she's entitled to. Even if she has a secret of her own.
What a great book! Rouda is perfect for penning this one with her first-hand experience in Washington. It has all the drama, scandal, politics, greed, deceit, cutthroat, corruption, secrets, lies, and power you expect with her novels.
The author draws you in with her character's manipulation and power combined with dark wit. Readers will love/hate Jody as she lines up perfectly with Rouda's characters from previous books with all her backstabbing and trickery.
Kaira creatively opens each chapter with fascinating, helpful tips for new Congressional spouses and staffers, which are so much fun.
Smart and timely, this book will pull you in from the first page and keep you turning into the wee hours of the morning.
Visceral and alluring, THE WIDOW is a riveting novel about marriage, privilege, power, and lies in the cutthroat world of international politics.
A massive fan of the author and have read all her books. No one can spin a story like Kaira! Highly recommend each of them.
A special thank you to #ThomasandMercer and #NetGalley for an eARC to read, review, and enjoy.
Blog Review Posted @
www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 🌟 STARS
Pub Date: Dec 1, 2022
Top Books of 2022
Dec 2022 Must-Read Books
#AuthorElevatorSeries Interview
February 21, 2023
3.75 stars. Kaira Rouda has a knack for exposing the dark side of seemingly normal characters. Jody, "The Widow" of Congressman Martin Asher, is devious and diabolical, with psychopathic tendencies, but I still found her fiendishly amusing-the character you love to hate! I liked the DC setting and was totally invested in Part 1 of the book. I thought that Part 2 was a bit slow, and I began to lose interest. Not really a thriller, nor particularly suspenseful, but more of a political drama. Not my favorite Kaira Rouda book, but I do love her writing style and her insights into the hidden agendas of her characters. I'm already looking forward to her next one!
December 3, 2022
A congressman and his wife were the power couple for many years.
Then a scandal hits about some deal and also about an affair he had with a young staff member.
THE WIDOW takes us through Jody and Martin Asher's life before and after the scandals and as Jody is the push behind him.
Thrown into the mix is the wedding of their daughter whose wedding is to be the talk of the town.
Will it be the talk of the town for more reasons than how lavish it is to be?
THE WIDOW was not a favorite for me.
It was cleverly done, but I didn't like any of the characters, and it dragged on for me.
There are some surprises at the end, but not enough to make me love the book.
Those readers who enjoy turmoil, secrets, watching characters struggle through solving problems, strong female characters, secrets, and a political backdrop will enjoy this book. 3/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Then a scandal hits about some deal and also about an affair he had with a young staff member.
THE WIDOW takes us through Jody and Martin Asher's life before and after the scandals and as Jody is the push behind him.
Thrown into the mix is the wedding of their daughter whose wedding is to be the talk of the town.
Will it be the talk of the town for more reasons than how lavish it is to be?
THE WIDOW was not a favorite for me.
It was cleverly done, but I didn't like any of the characters, and it dragged on for me.
There are some surprises at the end, but not enough to make me love the book.
Those readers who enjoy turmoil, secrets, watching characters struggle through solving problems, strong female characters, secrets, and a political backdrop will enjoy this book. 3/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
December 5, 2022
I’ll admit I went into this one completely blind. I had heard great things about this author and the cover was intriguing. I will admit I don’t usually go for political themed books, but I have to say this was better than expected once I realized exactly what I had gotten into. I liked the voices the narrators had (even if there were no likable characters in this story in my opinion at least. I really liked the tips that were strewn within the story I thought that was a unique touch. I didn’t find the twists as sharp and twisty as I might have liked but there were bits I hadn’t figured out which is always fun in a thriller. Politics is a dangerous game which one woman finds out when she uses the widow rule to run for her deceased husbands seat in congress. Overall I gave it 3.5 stars rounded up for being the kind of story I had to finish at one time.
November 26, 2022
I tend to stay away from any Political type books as I usually don't like them. I went in blind with this one and it turned out alright. I really liked the author's writing style and how she added in little titbits of advice from one political wife to the next.
The story was believable enough but a few times it was a bit too over the top for me. It kept me engaged with a bit of a slow moment in the middle. Overall not a bad read.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
The story was believable enough but a few times it was a bit too over the top for me. It kept me engaged with a bit of a slow moment in the middle. Overall not a bad read.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
October 2, 2022
I really enjoy the authors brand of writing, she always creates fascinating characters that are wholly unlikable but this is done intentionally. You know that that you’re supposed to be annoyed by these people and they’re supposed to get under your skin and Jody was no exception. There is something deliciously fun about reading about a devious character and I definitely enjoyed that aspect. Unfortunately that’s about all I enjoyed here, so thank god for unapologetically awful characters like Jody haha. I knew this centered on politics but it was just too much for me and I felt bogged down by all the political talk. The drama felt convoluted and unnecessarily messy just for the sake of it and I didn’t fully believe many aspects of the characters actions and behaviors. Overall a bit of a miss for me but if you like sociopathic characters and politically charged plots this may work for you.
December 25, 2022
The Widow by Kaira Rouda has a very political setting thanks to Martin being in congress and Jody being a politician's wife, and I have to say I was a huge fan of this! Normally I am not big on politics in books, but I can never turn down a Rouda novel, and I'm glad I didn't let the topic deter me. It was actually really interesting, and despite the fact that basically every single character was despicable, I kind of loved how awful and devious they were. Jody especially was quite conniving (though if we're being honest Martin was worse), and she is one of the main viewpoints, so we are in her head a lot. I know this isn't going to be for everyone, but it worked really well for me and didn't make me want to throw my book across the room which was a plus. There are a few different viewpoints spread throughout the story, and I loved all of them along with the tips for new congressional spouses and more that split up every chapter.
The Widow also just so happens to be on Kindle Unlimited for both the eBook and the audiobook, and I really enjoyed the audio. There are 3 narrators, Donna Postel, George Newbern, and Nancy Wu, and I loved all of them! I saw some negative reviews saying the narrators were monotone, but I didn't think that to be the case at all, and it felt like really easy listening to me. I thought they were all nice to listen to and voiced their parts perfectly. I had no idea that Rouda's husband was a congressman and I loved that some of the events mentioned in the book are real. This story felt like it was a little bit of a departure from Rouda's previous novels, but I would definitely take more books from her set in D.C. The Widow felt a little bit like watching an episode of House of Cards and I was here for it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Widow also just so happens to be on Kindle Unlimited for both the eBook and the audiobook, and I really enjoyed the audio. There are 3 narrators, Donna Postel, George Newbern, and Nancy Wu, and I loved all of them! I saw some negative reviews saying the narrators were monotone, but I didn't think that to be the case at all, and it felt like really easy listening to me. I thought they were all nice to listen to and voiced their parts perfectly. I had no idea that Rouda's husband was a congressman and I loved that some of the events mentioned in the book are real. This story felt like it was a little bit of a departure from Rouda's previous novels, but I would definitely take more books from her set in D.C. The Widow felt a little bit like watching an episode of House of Cards and I was here for it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 10, 2022
Lies, deceit, secrets … all this is going on in Congress? No surprise there! This book is very different than anything else Kaira Rouda has written. And that ending I did not see coming!! Way to go Kaira! If you love politics you’ll love this book! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review.
February 20, 2023
3.5!
This book is full of ruthless, cutthroat unlikeable characters which was great. You can have a lot of fun hating on them!
If you’re into the whole American politics / political suspense books scene, then you’ll definitely enjoy this one! I think the book dragged on in a couple of places, but other than that it’s an entertaining read for sure!
This book is full of ruthless, cutthroat unlikeable characters which was great. You can have a lot of fun hating on them!
If you’re into the whole American politics / political suspense books scene, then you’ll definitely enjoy this one! I think the book dragged on in a couple of places, but other than that it’s an entertaining read for sure!
May 10, 2022
Martin Asher had a great career as a politician in Washington DC for 15 congressional terms. His wife Jody has been his perfect partner to further his career. Martin had an affair with a young staffer which will kill the power couple’s legacy if it gets out. When Martin suddenly dies it is time for Jody to take control and save their legacy and her future.
I am a fan of Kaira Rouda so I jumped at the chance to read her latest book. I went in blind and I wasn’t disappointed. This was somewhat of a political drama which I thought was rather unique. There was plenty of backstabbing and drama happening also. Now I am definitely looking forward to see what Kaira Rouda comes up with next!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
I am a fan of Kaira Rouda so I jumped at the chance to read her latest book. I went in blind and I wasn’t disappointed. This was somewhat of a political drama which I thought was rather unique. There was plenty of backstabbing and drama happening also. Now I am definitely looking forward to see what Kaira Rouda comes up with next!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
January 3, 2023
A Juicy Political Thiller!
Kaira Rouda’s juicy political thriller, The Widow, is a must-read! She delves into the dark side of politics, bringing out just a hint of compassion in readers for this group of dirtbags. I normally dislike political novels but her excellent writing and diabolical characters make this a riveting read that is hard to put down!
Behind the smiles, lies, and glitz...into the darkness of scandals and indiscretions. There are no friends on the Hill. Favors are not free. Everyone has a price. Someone is always watching. Trying to expose your secrets and take you down. No one is who you think they are. And NO ONE can be trusted!
Martin and Jody Asher are a golden couple in politics. Martin is charismatic and everyone loves him. Jody is the supportive spouse that keeps things running perfectly behind the scenes.
But Jody isn’t someone you want as a friend or enemy! She’s power-hungry, arrogant, and devious. A character that you love to hate. I was glued to the pages as I waited for someone to knock her off the invisible pedestal she thought she was on! I was kept in suspense as she came close, only to come out smelling like a rose. Would it ever happen?
I pictured Martin as JFK but I couldn’t imagine Jody as Jackie. She was too backstabbing and narcissistic. I could never quite visualize any one person as Jody.
Ms. Rouda is one of my top authors and I pounce on her books as soon as I see them…without reading the description. Yes! She’s that good.
Sincere thanks to the publisher and author for providing this ARC through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
#TheWidow #KairaRouda #netgalley #thomasandmercer #honestreview #politicalthriller #bookaddict #thrilleraddict #kindleunlimited
Kaira Rouda’s juicy political thriller, The Widow, is a must-read! She delves into the dark side of politics, bringing out just a hint of compassion in readers for this group of dirtbags. I normally dislike political novels but her excellent writing and diabolical characters make this a riveting read that is hard to put down!
Behind the smiles, lies, and glitz...into the darkness of scandals and indiscretions. There are no friends on the Hill. Favors are not free. Everyone has a price. Someone is always watching. Trying to expose your secrets and take you down. No one is who you think they are. And NO ONE can be trusted!
Martin and Jody Asher are a golden couple in politics. Martin is charismatic and everyone loves him. Jody is the supportive spouse that keeps things running perfectly behind the scenes.
But Jody isn’t someone you want as a friend or enemy! She’s power-hungry, arrogant, and devious. A character that you love to hate. I was glued to the pages as I waited for someone to knock her off the invisible pedestal she thought she was on! I was kept in suspense as she came close, only to come out smelling like a rose. Would it ever happen?
I pictured Martin as JFK but I couldn’t imagine Jody as Jackie. She was too backstabbing and narcissistic. I could never quite visualize any one person as Jody.
Ms. Rouda is one of my top authors and I pounce on her books as soon as I see them…without reading the description. Yes! She’s that good.
Sincere thanks to the publisher and author for providing this ARC through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
#TheWidow #KairaRouda #netgalley #thomasandmercer #honestreview #politicalthriller #bookaddict #thrilleraddict #kindleunlimited
December 1, 2022
The Widow
By: Kaira Rouda
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the novel you will want to spend the whole day and forget dinner, chores and life. Captivating and delightful.
Martin Asher is a charming congressman. He and his wife Jody have been together a long time and share political ambitions. They have one daughter.
For fifteen years they have stood by each other side and are beloved in Ohio and the Hill. As his secrets come out, his next term is challenged. Besides the stress of overextending financially with their daughters wedding, the media is about to disclose some dirty secrets.
As Martin dies at his daughters wedding, things began to unravel. Jody wants to stay in office to complete his term!
This novel is gripping, scandalous, candid and just plan fun! Rouda’s imagination and page turning novels always have me waiting for her next one.
Thank you to @netgalley, @kairarouda and @thomasandmercer for this advanced copy.
***This novel is due out December 1, 2022.***
#kairarouda, #netgalley, #bookreview, #booksconnectus, #bookstagram, #stamperlady50, #thomasandmercer
By: Kaira Rouda
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the novel you will want to spend the whole day and forget dinner, chores and life. Captivating and delightful.
Martin Asher is a charming congressman. He and his wife Jody have been together a long time and share political ambitions. They have one daughter.
For fifteen years they have stood by each other side and are beloved in Ohio and the Hill. As his secrets come out, his next term is challenged. Besides the stress of overextending financially with their daughters wedding, the media is about to disclose some dirty secrets.
As Martin dies at his daughters wedding, things began to unravel. Jody wants to stay in office to complete his term!
This novel is gripping, scandalous, candid and just plan fun! Rouda’s imagination and page turning novels always have me waiting for her next one.
Thank you to @netgalley, @kairarouda and @thomasandmercer for this advanced copy.
***This novel is due out December 1, 2022.***
#kairarouda, #netgalley, #bookreview, #booksconnectus, #bookstagram, #stamperlady50, #thomasandmercer
November 1, 2022
Political intrigue and rich people behaving badly? What's not to love? Unfortunately, while the premise was promising for The Widow, the plot ultimately became convoluted and lost me. This is an amazon first read choice for November, so you have an opportunity to read it for free if you are a prime member and can make your own decision!
Thank you to Amazon for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Amazon for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
June 15, 2022
Lets be serious, if Kaira Rouda, is writing a book, I know I am reading it.
The Widow, was fantastic from start to finish. There was no way I was putting this book down once I started and I probably should have anticipated this instead of burning the casserole in the oven (oops!) Who the heck burns a casserole? Oh, yes, I do.
The Widow was gripping, thrilling and all around a well written psychological mind game. The twist was one that you will not see coming and the entire book will be read at the edge of your seat.
If you cant already tell, I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
Five Stars.
The Widow, was fantastic from start to finish. There was no way I was putting this book down once I started and I probably should have anticipated this instead of burning the casserole in the oven (oops!) Who the heck burns a casserole? Oh, yes, I do.
The Widow was gripping, thrilling and all around a well written psychological mind game. The twist was one that you will not see coming and the entire book will be read at the edge of your seat.
If you cant already tell, I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
Five Stars.
May 11, 2022
Another great book from Kaira Rouda, one of those authors I would just automatically purchase a book from.
Stories regarding politics are not normally my thing but I couldn't get enough of this one once I started.
Jody Asher has had her life with husband Martin planned for years, she wants them to go to the top in politics so that she can continue her role of a somewhat first lady. All things considered things are moving along nicely even though Martin is having or has had an affair with a young staffer. Then, Martin suddenly dies of a major heart attack leaving Jody terrified about what her life with out politics would be like. Instead, she decides to continue as Martin's replacement until the term of power is up leading but she will upset others as she has her own agenda to fulfil and not everyone will like what she has in mind. All this makes for great reading, near the end another twist occurs that I had not seen coming.
Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas and Mercer for providing a digital copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Stories regarding politics are not normally my thing but I couldn't get enough of this one once I started.
Jody Asher has had her life with husband Martin planned for years, she wants them to go to the top in politics so that she can continue her role of a somewhat first lady. All things considered things are moving along nicely even though Martin is having or has had an affair with a young staffer. Then, Martin suddenly dies of a major heart attack leaving Jody terrified about what her life with out politics would be like. Instead, she decides to continue as Martin's replacement until the term of power is up leading but she will upset others as she has her own agenda to fulfil and not everyone will like what she has in mind. All this makes for great reading, near the end another twist occurs that I had not seen coming.
Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas and Mercer for providing a digital copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 14, 2022
I am so impressed by Kaira Rouda! She's come so far since the first book I read from her.
Sometimes she inserts snippy political opinions or stances that irritate me into her books so I was concerned about a political drama from her but it wasn't particularly partisan, it was just set in the DC swamp scene in general, and I'm a political junkie, even though I wish I wasn't, so this was juicy!
This was really well-written, the characters were interesting and complex. Rouda often writes about questionable women but it doesn't always land because I don't connect with them or understand what they're trying to achieve. They sometimes fell flat, which would be easy to do with a less than sympathetic character! She has perfected it in this book.
It was just an all-around fabulous read especially for a Prime First option. I can't wait for more from her. I love seeing authors hone their craft. It makes my heart smile.
Sometimes she inserts snippy political opinions or stances that irritate me into her books so I was concerned about a political drama from her but it wasn't particularly partisan, it was just set in the DC swamp scene in general, and I'm a political junkie, even though I wish I wasn't, so this was juicy!
This was really well-written, the characters were interesting and complex. Rouda often writes about questionable women but it doesn't always land because I don't connect with them or understand what they're trying to achieve. They sometimes fell flat, which would be easy to do with a less than sympathetic character! She has perfected it in this book.
It was just an all-around fabulous read especially for a Prime First option. I can't wait for more from her. I love seeing authors hone their craft. It makes my heart smile.
November 30, 2022
Wow, I really loved this domestic thriller. Lots of crazy happening here. Jody had a plan for her and her husband Martin. To have a successful political career. Jody was doing everything right to makes sure it happens. Then martin does something to totally mess it up, and a reporter gets word of the scandal waiting to happen and wants to expose him. But when Martin unexpectedly ends up dead, Jody wants to change the script, and take over. she'll stop at nothing to make sure it turns out the way she wants, but this reporter is refusing to let it go. Jody was so heartless and cutthroat…and she will make sure she gets what she wants.
This book really kept me on the edge of my seat. It has unlikeable characters and some unexpected twists…and Jody was hard core. Definitely a really good thriller.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
This book really kept me on the edge of my seat. It has unlikeable characters and some unexpected twists…and Jody was hard core. Definitely a really good thriller.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
December 19, 2022
This was quite the intriguing read! I enjoyed getting a behind the scenes scoop of the captivating and deceptive world of politics but I will admit it may have been just a little too political for me.
This book was bursting with unlikeable characters but I couldn’t help but be so enthralled by them and was continually guessing what devious and vindictive actions they would take next!
Although a bit slower than I typically prefer, it was still a scandalously suspenseful plot with some clever twists for sure!
This book was bursting with unlikeable characters but I couldn’t help but be so enthralled by them and was continually guessing what devious and vindictive actions they would take next!
Although a bit slower than I typically prefer, it was still a scandalously suspenseful plot with some clever twists for sure!
June 9, 2022
Martin Asher has been in the US Congress for 30 years - his district in Ohio is known as "Asher Country". HIs intelligent and beautiful wife Jody has been his partner through this and a crucial factor in his success. However Martin has made some judgement errors that have landed him in a potential scandal and might lead to the demise of his political life in Washington. Jody is in an ice-cold f = ury. Her whole life is in Washington and she loves being a political spouse. She is NOT losing all this due to her husband's stupidity! But it will take a cool head and some political maneuvering to make things go exactly her way. Fortunately, that is where Jody, an unapologetic sociopath, excels.
I loved this novel - so devilishly entertaining! What if you could completely ignore the angel on your shoulder and act completely selfishly to achieve your own ends? This is how Jody lives her life. I enjoyed following the machinations and psychological manhandling in this pursuit of power and wealth. And I was rooting for Jody all the way!
I loved this novel - so devilishly entertaining! What if you could completely ignore the angel on your shoulder and act completely selfishly to achieve your own ends? This is how Jody lives her life. I enjoyed following the machinations and psychological manhandling in this pursuit of power and wealth. And I was rooting for Jody all the way!
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