The Perfect Widow

I really like the premise of the story, but too much inner dialogue, not enough interaction between the characters. Also would have liked some insight into the mind of Patrick and what drove him, everything about him was from the prospective of Louise and her never-ending ending narrative.

This is another author who has written in a different genre the one I''m used to reading from her - and what a successful move it is!! Louise Bridges has a perfect life: perfect husband, two perfect children - one of each, of course - and a stunning, perfect home. She devotes herself to her family and has never stopped loving husband Patrick. After receiving the shattering news of Patrick's death, one of the police officers finds it playing on her mind afterwards about how Louise reacted to the dreadful words they had to impart. Why didn't her world cave in on her, as would be expected? Despite an official verdict to the contrary, Becca decides to look into this 'off the books' hoping it may gain her recognition and advance her career in the force. I know this author's work really well; I'm a big fan of her London Murder Mysteries and have always felt that her journalistic background shows through in the tremendous use of language in her novels. The Perfect Widow is a stunning read, securing this author's place in the world of thrillers. Skilfully crafted, and slowly revealing the whole story, my attention was not only on the page - I couldn't take my eyes off it! The story is told on two time-scales - the present and the past - and also from two different points of view: that of both Louise and Becca. Right up until the very last, I couldn't have told you which way this was going and I was utterly astounded at the ending! An staggeringly gratifying read and one I'm thrilled to have read. Within any doubt, a sparkling five stars - and no less - will do!

Good read