Books The Silent Wife - A. S. A. Harrison

The Silent Wife by A.S.A. Harrison is a psychological thriller that explores the unraveling of a 20-year relationship between Jodi Brett, a part-time psychotherapist, and Todd Gilbert, a successful real estate developer. The couple lives in an upscale Chicago condo, but their marriage is deeply troubled due to Todd’s serial infidelities, including a significant affair with Natasha, the daughter of Todd’s lifelong friend, who becomes pregnant.

Jodi has long tolerated Todd’s betrayals to maintain their comfortable lifestyle, but Todd’s decision to leave Jodi for Natasha and force her to vacate their home triggers a dramatic and dark chain of events. Told through alternating perspectives, the novel delves into themes of denial, betrayal, control, and psychological disintegration, culminating in Jodi’s transformation from a woman in denial to someone capable of murder.

The book is praised for its intricate character development and psychological depth, with a narrative that focuses on the emotional and mental unraveling rather than traditional suspense. It has been compared to Gone Girl for its exploration of a toxic marriage and the extremes people go to when pushed to their limits.

Key points:

Explores a long-term relationship deteriorating under infidelity and denial.

Alternating viewpoints between Jodi and Todd provide insight into their psyches.

Themes include trust, betrayal, emotional repression, and psychological breakdown.

Set in Chicago, highlighting the contrast between outward affluence and inner turmoil.

The story builds to a chilling climax involving murder.

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