The Husband's Secret

So I've finally read it. And I'm glad that from now on, when my friends from real life or virtual friends talk about this book, I can actually participate in the discussion. BUT I have to admit, either my expectations were really high or I wasn't in the right mood for this book. OR (now don't hate me for saying this) but this book is actually not as brilliant as most reviews/comments say. It could be any of this, or neither..either way, I'm glad I gave this book a fair chance and finally got it off my tbr list. Most of you with long tbr lists know the relief I'm felling for crossing this book off the list. So I'm actually kind of surprised I'm in the minority with those who rated this book with *cough* JUST 3 stars. I know, 3 stars is not a bad rating, but I do feel a bit bad for seems all of my friends have loved it and gave it a higher rating. For me, honestly, this is an average book. I mean sure, the premise sounded really good and though I didn't find the blurb interesting enough to make me read this book, I kept seeing it on my friends shelves and kept hearing about it...so yeah, I HAD TO check it out. As I said, the beginning was fantastic! I mean, I was flipping through the pages late at night and kept thinking - this book definitely has the WOW factor! It seemed complex with 3 stories intertwining though these 3 characters had nothing in common (or so it appeared at the beginning). It did feel kind of weird (but in a good way) and I was dying to find the connection between them. Cecelia seemed like one of those perfect little wives from 'Desperate Housewives', she's super active in her community, she's successful, she's a good mother and wife everyone admires. She's happily married and has lovely kids. ALL until that day she finds that letter her husband wrote years ago and that was hidden in the attic. Tess is going through a rough period, and finds out she was betrayed by two of her dearest people. She decides it's time to turn the page and make a point. For it seems she was living in someone's shadow for quite some time. And finally Rachel. Rachel was my favorite character I must admit, though she's not perfect (and was not even trying to be perfect) I could connect with her despite the fact I've never been through her pain (Thank god!). So, we have these 3 women and one letter, 3 stories, 3 histories, lots of sorrow, grief and guilt! But as for the connection, you'll have to read the book to find out more about it. When said like this, perhaps it does sounds like Liane picked 3 random characters and tried to forcefully put them into one story, but believe me they are strongly connected. And it's that connection that's the core of the story. But, being familiar with Liane's writing style, I did have higher expectations for this book, not just because of the buzz around it. Those that have read What Alice Forgot know what I'm talking about. I loved that book, I was totally invested in the story and it had my interest till the very last page. With The Husband's Secret...not so much (said mildly). However it's a 3 star rating so it still means I did like it to certain extent. It's an interesting story and kept me guessing, there were few twists I didn't see coming and though I didn't really care for most of the characters, I loved Rachel. I really really cared about her. I was surprised with the fact the author tried to include a bit (tiny bit) of humor in the book (though it's quite a serious one) and in some parts that humor fitted well. Other times it felt a bit weird (again said mildly). But it's definitely a thought-provoking book. One that will constantly make you wonder WHAT IF? When I started reading it, I had a feeling it's gonna be a book about infidelities and every day drama that could happen to everyone. But it's more than that, and it sure is deeper than that. So wrapping up, I can't say I recommend it highly, but it was an interesting read. Sure, I disliked some parts hence the rating, but overall it was a decent read. It had mystery, drama, romance, everything I love generally. I will definitely be reading Liane's future books, no doubt about it!show more

I loved this book. I will be looking for other titles by this author.show more

The book really lives up to its plot. The reveal of the secret completely shatters the reality of everyone involved and creates an avalanche of disaster and grief that culminates in some good page-turning drama. However, I had a really big gripe with the way chapters were structured. The way the book works is it's constantly alternating between 3 main characters' points of view/story lines, never straying from this rigid structure. This feels incredibly frustrating when one storyline heats up and then you're forced to cut away from it for a dozen pages and having to sit through currently much less interesting story lines. It felt like I was watching a really good episode of a thriller show on TV and just as things were getting great it cuts to commercial break. It just feels like needless padding and teasing. I've yet to try Moriarty's other books, but this one left me a bittersweet taste in my mouth.show more

This is a book written for anyone who has imagined everyone else's beautiful lives being without turmoil, faced a separation, done the school run, or wondered what might have been. Compulsive and easily readable, it isn't easy to put down. Perfect holiday reading.show more

Loved this book - Couldn't put it down!!show more