My Darling Husband by Kimberly Belle
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of My Darling Husband in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
Kimberly Belle’s My Darling Husband is a gripping domestic thriller that explores the dark depths of family secrets and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones. The novel centers around a seemingly perfect couple, Jade and Cam Lasky, whose lives are upended when their home is invaded by a masked intruder.
The Details
The plot unfolds through alternating perspectives, primarily from Jade and Cam, as they navigate the harrowing experience of a home invasion. The pacing is brisk, with tension mounting as the story progresses. Belle skillfully maintains suspense, ensuring readers remain engaged, eager to uncover the motives behind the invasion and the secrets the characters are hiding.
The characters are well-drawn, with Jade emerging as a strong and resourceful protagonist. Cam’s perspective provides insight into the pressures and compromises that accompany his success. The masked intruder, while menacing, is also given depth, making him more than a one-dimensional villain. However, some secondary characters feel underdeveloped, serving more as plot devices than fully fleshed-out individuals.
Belle’s writing is clear and concise, with an ability to evoke tension and emotion. Her use of multiple perspectives allows for a multifaceted view of the unfolding events, although at times, the shifts in viewpoint can disrupt the narrative flow.
The Verdict
Overall, My Darling Husband is a solid domestic thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. While it excels in building suspense and creating sympathetic protagonists, it falls short in character development. Fans of Belle’s previous works and readers who enjoy fast-paced, suspenseful novels will find much to appreciate in this book. However, those looking for deeper character studies or more nuanced explorations of themes might find it lacking.