The Younger Wife by Sally Hepworth
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
This book is complicated. On the one side, it’s a super fast read. The three women in the story are interesting and layered and three-dimensional. They make the book a fast-read and they have distinct voices and they are well-done.
The men, however, are too perfect. There’s nothing wrong with them. They are not complex or interesting.
And there are some major issues in this book that are glossed over. Some are dealt with in some detail (the one Tully has) and some are absolutely not given enough room (Rachel’s) and space to be dealt with the respect they deserve. It makes them feel like token issues.
And then there’s the ending. I don’t mind a twist. I don’t mind unexpected or even unclear endings. I do mind endings that (maybe) unintentionally play into stereotypes that are really not helpful. Let’s not do that.
so fast read, complex/interesting women. but then so much not great, too. Love Hepworth and will keep reading her. Just didn’t love this one.
with gratitude to St. Martin’s Press and netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review
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