It's been a while since I've read a thriller and I forgot how addicting they can be! I wound up reading The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen because I drove to Hull for the weekend and had forgotten the book I was actively reading in Watertown. My grandmother had read this book while she was visiting this summer, and left it behind when she flew home.
It's the story of Vanessa, a woman who exited an abusive marriage, and is trying to protect her ex-husband's new fiancé from experiencing the same trauma that she did.
The first half of the book is mostly flashbacks to when Vanessa initially met Richard. Lots of details about her single life, her role as a pre-school teacher, and her living situation with her best friend, Samantha. As you read on, you begin to learn about all the ways Vanessa changes to accommodate Richard.
Then, things move into the present day, where it's clear Richard is following the same controlling pattern with his new love interest, Emma. Vanessa becomes obsessed with warning her.
There were so many instances where I was reading about Vanessa's pursuit of Emma and my heart was pounding. The book reminded me of Gone Girl in that way. The main character feels dangerous.
At the very end, there's a big reveal that I was not expecting. I appreciate when author's keep you on your toes until the very last page.
The book has been optioned by Steven Spielberg's Amblin Partners, and will hopefully become a movie. I could easily see this on the big screen.
When I finished, I moved on to something much lighter, Cameran Eubank's memoir. When I wrap that, I am going to start Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley. Two friends devoured it and absolutely raved, so I'm excited to get started.
*Image courtesy of Bookmarked by Eva.
