The Mother-in-Law by Sally Hepworth
Rating: ★★★★☆
Dates Read: 10/25/23 - 10/25/23
When Lucy first met her husband's mother, Diana, she felt a noticeable distance between them. Despite Diana's polite demeanor, Lucy sensed that she didn't meet Diana's expectations. Diana, a respected advocate for social justice, seemed to lead a perfect life with her husband, Tom. Lucy desperately tried to win her approval.
Fast forward five years, and Diana is found dead, seemingly by suicide due to cancer. However, the autopsy reveals no cancer but instead uncovers traces of poison and suffocation. The mystery deepens as Lucy questions who would want Diana dead. Moreover, Diana's last-minute decision to change her will, disinheriting her children and their spouses, adds another layer of intrigue to this puzzling situation. Lucy is left wondering about the secrets hidden behind Diana's perfect facade.
I absolutely loved this book! The characters were so engaging, and the plot kept me hooked from start to finish. I appreciated how the story delved into the complex dynamics within the family, exploring the relationships between Diana and Lucy. The narrative alternation between their perspectives in both the past and present was brilliantly done. It allowed me to see how they interpreted the same situations differently, adding depth to their characters.
There's been talk about Diana's actions, but I thought the author did a fantastic job explaining her personality and choices. Diana's guarded nature and her unique bond with her husband, Tom, were depicted intricately. Their relationship, portrayed from her viewpoint, made me empathize with her character. Hepworth's talent in crafting multi-layered characters shone through, evoking a range of emotions as I delved into their lives. The story highlighted the impact of miscommunication and misunderstanding within the family, making me sympathize with their struggles. I couldn't help but wonder how things might have been different if they had communicated openly about their feelings and concerns.
Overall, the book immediately captivated me and kept me engrossed until the very end. It wasn't just about the mystery; it was the intricate family dynamics that truly fascinated me. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, but what stood out were the deep emotions and thought-provoking themes woven into the narrative. I felt a bit dumb for not anticipating the ending, but that surprise only added to my overall enjoyment of the story. Sally Hepworth keeps winning for me.
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