The Wife Upstairs

Author: Rachel Hawkins

Genre: Fiction, Thriller, Mystery

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Pages: 336

Date Started: 19 October 2022

Date Finished: 22 October 2022

'The Wife Upstairs' takes readers on a thrilling journey through the intertwined lives of Jane, Eddie, and Bea. Jane, an orphan with dreams of escaping her modest life, crosses paths with Eddie Rochester, a wealthy widower who has recently lost his wife, Bea, in a tragic accident. A romantic connection ensues, leading to their decision to marry. However, Jane is haunted by the memory of Bea and her rags-to-riches story, which centers around the successful company 'Southern Manner.' The novel explores Jane's relentless pursuit of Eddie's love and the enigmatic circumstances surrounding Bea's death. This book delivers a gripping and suspenseful narrative that kept me eagerly turning the pages. The pacing is impeccable, and the story is devoid of unnecessary subplots or characters, maintaining its focus on the central mystery. The development of the relationship between Jane and Eddie is a particular highlight, showcasing the complexities of their connection. What stands out in 'The Wife Upstairs' is the author's adept portrayal of power dynamics and control within relationships, especially a scene where Eddie instructs Jane on how to command the attention of others. This psychological aspect adds depth to the story and characters. The book's ending successfully defies the reader's expectations, creating an engaging and satisfying experience. For those seeking a thrilling and well-crafted mystery, 'The Wife Upstairs' is a highly recommended choice.

Favorite lines from the book:

• But need is not a word people like this think of. Everything with them is a want.

• There's a trick to spinning lies. You have to embed the truth in there, just a glimmer of it. That's the part that will catch people, and it's what makes the rest of your lies sound like truth, too.

• Watch people’s eyes more than you listened to what they said. Mouths were good at lying, but eyes usually told the truth.

• No one can be judged for the books they buy in airports.

• The stressful part is always making the decision,” Bea used to remind her employee. “Once you’ve made it, it’s done, and you feel better.

• There are always two deaths, the real one and the one people know about.

• Bea had always believed that a man who overestimates his intelligence is a man who can be easily manipulated. Turns out he's also a man who can be really dangerous.