January Reading Challenge Discussion

January’s Reading Challenge was to read a novel you have been eagerly anticipating releasing.

The first book I selected to read is The Wife and the Widow which is Christian White’s second release. I have to confess: I think The Wife and the Widow is even better than his first novel, The Nowhere Child.

Unfolding from dual narratives, this domestic mystery takes place on Belport Island. One story arc follows Kate Keddie who first discovers her husband, John, has been keeping some very big secrets from her. Unfortunately, before she can confront him, he is murdered. Kate and her father-in-law, Fisher, head to Belport Island to try to make sense of why John was on the island in the first place. Kate is also determined to discover who murdered him and why.

The second storyline follows Abby Gilpin as she becomes suspicious of her husband Ray. A puzzling discovery soon turns more sinister when news of a murder rocks the island. Abby is initially unsure that Ray could be involved with the death, but will her suspicions turn out to be true?

The Wife and the Widow is an incredibly riveting mystery with an atmospheric setting. The chapters alternate between Kate’s and Abby’s perspectives which builds the suspense to a fever pitch. With an absolutely mind-bending plot twist, The Wife and the Widow brings this outstanding mystery to a stunning conclusion. HIGHLY recommend!

Please click HERE to learn more about The Wife and The Widow.

The next book I selected is The Edge of the World by Garrett Leigh. The release date was pushed back about six months so I’ve been eager to read it and I am happy to report: so worth the wait.

Shay Maloney is on tour with his band when his manager surprises reminds him a documentary researcher will be joining them. Dismayed but knowing he has no choice but to co-operate, Shay is initially a reluctant participant in the genealogy documentary.

Researcher Ollie Pietruska already knows how Shay’s genealogy discovery ends, but he reveals the gifted musician’s family history bit by bit. He has traced Shay’s roots waaaayyyyy back into the past, and he is quite pleased at Shay’s reaction to each reveal.

While Shay is pretty much an open book, Ollie is very reserved and gives up little information about himself. Shay is surprised by his attraction to Ollie, but the researcher gives off very obvious “keep your distance” vibes. Even when their relationship evolves from professional to personal, Ollie remains very tight-lipped. There is no mistaking he has gone through a traumatic experience, but will Shay convince Ollie to trust him with his secret?

The Edge of the World is a laid-back, slow-burn romance. Much of the story takes place on Shay’s tour bus so the forced intimacy provides a good foundation for their budding relationship. There is a push/pull element to the storyline but there is a refreshing lack of angst or heavy drama. All in all, a bit of an introspective read that old and new fans of Garrett Leigh are going to love!

Please click HERE to learn more about The Edge of the World.

Did your highly anticipated selection meet your expectations?

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Check out February’s challenge HERE.