This was okay. The beginning was a bit boring and had me wanting to DNF. But I'm glad I pushed through the ending was fantastic.

Absolutely loved this. As others have said you aren’t going to like the characters BUT you’ll LOVE to hate them. Set in a cruise with 4 couples who have a LOT of secrets!! Really enjoyable.
One to take to the beach

This is a story of four young couples. Natasha’s new rich husband Daniel invites her three friends and their partners to join them on an all expenses paid cruise. But Daniel is not who he appears to be as Natasha soon realises. As the story progresses we realise that the other couples all have secrets of their own. Who is responsible for the deaths of two members of the party? This was not one of my favourite reads and I did not find any of the characters likeable but I did keep reading as I had to know how the book ended.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.

This was a really easy to read thriller. You know who is going to die. You understand why he died. You find out everyone had a reason to want him dead. Then a bit of a whodunit.

None of the characters were likeable which is fine for me in a book. Toxic people, toxic friends and toxic secrets. It was a bit of a slow start but it picked up but I didn’t not like it. Ultimately it wasn’t full of suspense or surprises but it kept me reading. I saw someone describe it as a ‘popcorn thriller’ and that describes it perfectly.

I will add that I didn’t expect the very end!

Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Valerie Keogh for the gifted copy.

Prepare to be utterly captivated and thoroughly entertained by Valerie Keogh's "The Wives," a five-star thriller that is nothing short of amazing, engaging, wild, and incredible! Keogh delivers a masterclass in suspense, weaving a narrative that will grab you from the first page and refuse to let go until the final, shocking revelation.

This is a story that delves into the hidden lives of women, the secrets they keep, and the unexpected ways their paths can intertwine with explosive consequences. With a cast of compelling characters and a plot that twists and turns with exhilarating unpredictability, "The Wives" is a wild ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Keogh expertly builds tension, creating an atmosphere of unease and anticipation that permeates every chapter. As you delve deeper into the lives of these women, you'll find yourself questioning everything and everyone, trying to piece together the puzzle before the truth is laid bare. The engaging narrative and sharp writing make this a truly immersive reading experience, drawing you into a world where danger lurks beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary lives.

"The Wives" is an incredible testament to Keogh's skill as a storyteller. She crafts a plot that is both intricate and fast-paced, ensuring that there is never a dull moment. The twists are unexpected, the stakes are high, and the emotional depth of the characters will resonate with you long after you've finished the book.

If you're looking for a thriller that is amazing in its execution, engaging in its storytelling, wild in its twists, and incredible in its impact, then "The Wives" is an absolute must-read. It's a five-star experience that will leave you breathless and craving more from Valerie Keogh.

With friends like that, who needs enemies? For the most part I enjoyed this book. I sometimes got confused because there were so many characters it took me a while to tell the different couples apart. Lots of secrets and lots of distrust. Overall, this book was decent not my favorite but decent.

Say hello to The Wives — a deliciously twisty thriller that’s part Real Housewives, part Knives Out, and 100% the reason you might think twice before accepting a free vacation from your shady new husband.

Our main character, Natasha, thinks she’s hit the jackpot. Daniel is rich, gorgeous, and just controlling enough to make her believe it’s “love.” He invites her and three of her BFFs — Barbara, Tracy Ann, and Michelle — plus all their husbands on an all-expenses-paid cruise. Fancy dinners, sunny decks, endless champagne... what could possibly go wrong?

Everything.

Turns out, Daniel has more red flags than a bullfighting arena, and once the ship leaves port, secrets start bubbling up faster than poolside daiquiris. Every wife onboard has a motive, every husband has a secret, and Daniel? Let’s just say he’s lucky the ship has railings.

This locked-room (er, locked-ship) mystery keeps the tension high and the bodies (or at least the drama) dropping. It's one of those juicy reads where no one is entirely innocent, and you can’t trust anyone — not even the sunburned guy doing cannonballs at the pool.

And while most of the characters weren’t exactly loveable (some were more “stab-worthy”), that just made the plot even more fun to unravel. Think of it as a floating murder buffet: betrayal, jealousy, blackmail, and one very satisfying ending that’ll have you whispering, “I knew it!” like a smug little detective.

Final verdict: ★★★★☆
The Wives is fast, furious, and full of secrets, making it the perfect beach read — just maybe not on a cruise ship. If you love a thriller with messy characters, glamorous settings, and a body count that’s just a twist away, hop aboard.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC — and for reminding me that maybe staying home is the safest vacation after all.

Fast paced thriller I didn't want to put down, great setting with interesting characters. Loved the plot, loved the ending, definitely one to read in one go. Thank you netgalley for the advanced copy

A dramatic and far fetched story about a group of Natasha who has recently met and married the seemingly charming Daniel. She goes on a cruise with her closest friends and spouses and lots of drama follows. Told from each wives perspective it’s a juicy gripping read!

Valerie Keogh because she is a go to thriller author and I would recommend her stories to anyone.

From the very first chapter I was totally hooked and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. I love the fact that this is female centred, the characters are so well written with a complexity that draws you in to the story full of dark secrets and betrayal. The twists and turns were perfectly plotted to keep you intrigued about what actually and constantly leaving you wondering what is the real truth. If you like a twisty, domestic thriller told from multiple POVs than you have to read this. #valeriekeogh #boldwood #thriller2024 #netgalley

This is the first book I've read by this author and really enjoyed it! This definitely makes me want to pick up other books by them. This was unique, relatively fast paced, and well thought out!

A brilliant well written book that I could just not leave down , such a fantastic story that left you guessing right to the end but a really good ending that explained everything that unfolded throughout the book . Brilliant characters that were so well written about you felt you were in their lives with them . A brilliant story told with many a shock and a wow as you read chapter after chapter not wanting to leave it down. I would really recommend this book as a must read.

Natasha is the only person in her group who has a great career, but wants more. Her longtime friends have had or do have a career and happy lives, but what Natasha wants is a husband. Then she meets Daniel. He is rich, ambitious and good looking! He know how close she is to her friends,so Daniel books a cruise for all of them.. so why do they all dislike him? What does each wife know. It seems they all have a secret and one that will be exposed on the cruise.
I thank the author, publisher and Netgalley for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Valerie Keogh’s The Wives is a captivating psychological thriller that explores the dark complexities of relationships, secrets, and betrayal. With its intriguing plot, strong character development, and unpredictable twists, Keogh delivers a gripping read that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.

The story follows three women who, despite being married to the same man, are unknowingly tied together by a web of lies. As the novel progresses, the tension builds as the women start to unravel the truth about their shared husband and the secrets he has been hiding from each of them. Keogh does a great job of creating an atmosphere of suspense, and the gradual unfolding of the story keeps readers engaged throughout.

The characters are well-drawn, with each wife having her own distinct personality, background, and emotional baggage. Keogh does an excellent job of delving into the complexities of their relationships, not just with their husband, but with each other. The internal conflicts of the women are portrayed realistically, making them relatable and multifaceted. The shifting perspectives and emotional depth of the characters add an extra layer of intrigue to the plot.

The pacing is solid, with the story steadily building towards its dramatic climax. While some of the twists may be somewhat predictable for seasoned thriller readers, Keogh executes them with enough flair to make them feel satisfying. The final revelations are intense, and the ending offers a sense of closure while leaving a lingering sense of unease.

However, there are moments in the book where the plot could have delved deeper into the emotional complexities of the characters, especially in terms of their motivations and the impact of their choices. But overall, The Wives is a gripping and entertaining read that excels at creating suspense and exploring the dynamics of a toxic relationship.

In conclusion, The Wives is a fast-paced, psychological thriller that keeps you guessing until the very end. Valerie Keogh’s strong writing, engaging characters, and skillful plotting make it a solid choice for fans of suspenseful, twist-filled thrillers. While it may not be groundbreaking, it is a thoroughly enjoyable and absorbing read.

I just loved this book, and did not see the ending coming. Book was very well written and I will definitely read more by Ms Keogh in future. Highly recommended.
TB

*The Wives* by Valerie Keogh is a twisty, edge-of-your-seat psychological thriller that dives deep into the dangerous world of lies, secrets, and deadly decisions. In this thrilling narrative, the stakes are high, the secrets are darker, and the characters are far from what they seem. Keogh once again proves herself as the queen of domestic noir, delivering a gripping story that will keep readers hooked until the very last page.

The story centers around Natasha, a woman who seems to have it all—married to the handsome, wealthy, and charming Daniel, she believes her life is finally perfect. When Daniel invites Natasha and her friends—Barbara, Tracy Ann, and Michelle—on an extravagant all-expenses-paid cruise, it seems like the ultimate way to flaunt her success. But as the ship sets sail, Natasha soon discovers that her perfect husband has secrets that could unravel everything. Worse yet, each of the wives has their own reasons for wanting Daniel dead.

The tension in *The Wives* builds slowly at first, lulling the reader into a false sense of security, before quickly escalating into a high-stakes game of manipulation, betrayal, and murder. Keogh skillfully weaves multiple layers of intrigue, revealing the complicated dynamics between the characters as the dark secrets and hidden motives surface. Every character has a hidden agenda, and as the narrative progresses, the reader is led down a labyrinth of deception where no one is safe from the consequences of their actions.

Keogh’s writing is fast-paced and full of suspense, with each chapter ending on a note that compels you to keep reading. The psychological tension between the characters is palpable, and the unreliable nature of the narrators makes for a thrilling ride as the truth slowly comes to light. The twists are masterfully executed, with the final revelation being one that no one could have seen coming.

What sets *The Wives* apart is its exploration of the complexities of relationships, jealousy, and the darker side of human nature. The perfect facade of wealth and happiness quickly shatters, exposing the bitterness, insecurities, and desires lurking beneath the surface. Keogh’s sharp social commentary on the lengths people will go to protect their secrets and maintain their status is woven seamlessly into the narrative, making the story not just a thrilling ride but a reflection on the fragility of trust and the consequences of betrayal.

For fans of psychological thrillers and domestic noir, *The Wives* is a must-read. Valerie Keogh’s expert storytelling and ability to deliver unexpected twists will leave you breathless and questioning everything you thought you knew about the characters. If you're looking for a book full of suspense, dark secrets, and shocking revelations, *The Wives* will not disappoint. Keogh has once again crafted a gripping, unforgettable thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The Wives by Valerie Keogh is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of friendship, marriage, and hidden secrets. The story centers on Natasha, who believes she's found her perfect match in Daniel—rich, handsome, and charming. To showcase her newfound happiness, Daniel arranges an all-expenses-paid cruise for Natasha, her three closest friends—Barbara, Tracy Ann, and Michelle—and their husbands. However, as the voyage progresses, Natasha discovers that Daniel harbors dark secrets, and each of the wives has their own reasons for wanting him dead.

Keogh masterfully builds tension by narrating the story from multiple perspectives, allowing readers to delve into each character's psyche and uncover their hidden motives. The confined setting of the cruise ship amplifies the suspense, as long-buried secrets surface and relationships are tested. While some readers have noted a desire for more likable characters, the intricate plot and unexpected twists keep the pages turning. Fans of domestic thrillers will find The Wives an engaging and thought-provoking read.

First of all, thank you for letting me read this.

This book was a quick and entertaining read, sadly the characters who were supposed to be best friends acted more like bullies towards each other and this made the whole “best friends on a cruise” vibe a little less fun. Why would they even go if they cannot be anything but mean to each other.
There was lots of backstabbing and secrets, but no real suspense.
I had to finish and figure out who dunnit, however, this was not the exciting thriller I had hoped it would be.

Natasha has met the man of her dreams, rich and successful, absolutely perfect, or so she thinks. Generous Daniel invites her friends and their s/o on an all expenses paid cruise! Unbeknownst to Natasha, not all of her friends are enthralled with Daniel nor impressed with his "generosity" but they willingly accept their invitation. Shortly into the cruise, we find out who Daniel really is....through multiple POVs.

Full of SHOCKING surprises! I seriously could not put this book down! I was FLOORED!

Loved this!
This is a gripping thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish
The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, the writing is both engaging and suspenseful, with well-developed characters that add depth to the narrative.
The pacing of the novel is perfect, with just the right amount of tension to keep readers hooked without feeling overwhelmed.
Really enjoyable