I have read all of Kaira Rouda’s other novels but, this was my least favorite. I struggled a bit with the political side of the book since it isn’t my interests what so ever. However, there is SO much drama in this book. I tended to be pretty annoyed with or frustrated with our main character, Jody, throughout the book

But, if you do like a political drama with a strong main character… this one is for you!

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Going in, I wasn't sure what to expect, but I quickly found out that this story exposed the lurking skeletons of those in the political world which is always juicy. The drama never ceased and I loved hating the characters. There were parts in which my blood was boiling! A great read.

The Widow
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Thriller
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 11/15/22
Author: Kaira Rouda
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer
Pages: 316
Goodreads Rating: 3.95

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for providing a copy of the book for me to read in exchange for my honest opinion.

Synopsis: Jody Asher had a plan. Her charismatic husband, Martin, would be a political icon. She, the charming wife, would fuel his success. For fifteen congressional terms, they were the golden couple on the Hill. Martin’s secret affair with a young staffer doesn’t bother Jody personally. But professionally? It’s a legacy killer. Soon a reporter gets word of this scandal in the making, and Martin’s indiscretions threaten to ruin everything Jody has accomplished. When Martin suddenly dies, it’s a chance to change the narrative—but the reporter won’t let go of his lead. As the balance of power shifts in the Asher house and on the Hill, it’s time for Jody to take control. And there’s nothing the ruthless widow won’t do to secure the future she’s entitled to. Even if she has a secret of her own.

My Thoughts: I shared a very much love/hate relationship with the MC, to me, that is a sign of a good writer. It is easy to write lovable characters. It becomes more challenging to write characters that the reader hates so much that they love them. This is not my first book by this author and I enjoyed the prior one just as much. This was more of a political thriller drama, I usually do not care for politics in general, but the author wrote in such a way that drew me in immediately. Secrets, betrayal, greed, and power are just a few highlights. There were twists throughout but the ending twist was like wow! This was a good read that went pretty fast for me. Highly recommend.

100% Washington DC drama. I was surprised at how long it took for Martin to pass away; Jody was a sympathetic character until she wasn't. This is a fast-paced storyline interspersed with "tips" for Congressional newbies/spouses. One edit I would make would be to drop the many tips for Congressional "wives" and word the audience to include significant others. I would have liked to see more examples of political action by Congresswoman Asher, but this really is all about behind the scenes seedy political drama.

** spoiler alert ** I like Kaira Rouda's books, one never knows what to expect.

This one was a bit more difficult as the only likeable characters were the daughter and her fiance. I didn't know who's side to be on.

Jody is the wife of a 16 term congressman from Ohio. She loves the life, the privilege. He just happens to be a crook. Everything regarding his crimes come to a head the same weekend as their daughter's wedding. A wedding where a lot of money has been spent and invitations have gone out to the rich and powerful. Her husband Martin has not been feeling well which may have something to do with the drops from a visine bottle that Jody is putting in his drinks.

As Martin's crimes are exposed, the rich and powerful start turning on them, wedding invites being cancelled. After Martin dies at the wedding, Jody has decisions to make. She starts by running for his seat in a special election. Her old "friend" Mimi signs on as her campaign manager. Mimi may or may not be a friend.

We learn of the bribes, the deep connection to the Chinese Government. After Jody wins the special election, we learn who she really is.

This is a hard review to write as things are very convoluted. All in all, I like the book but I usually like at least one person to cheer for.

Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions are mine!

This was a pretty quick read that had a couple twists and turns throughout. Overall it was a nice distraction and an easy read. I enjoyed the "insiders" look into a politician's life.

Thank you, NetGalley for the ARC. I have loved previous books by Kaira Rouda and was excited to read this one. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy it as much as her previous books. Part 1 drew me in and I couldn't put it down, Part 2 wasn't as exciting and I really started to hate Jody and Mimi more. By Part 3, I was over this book, I found my eyes just skimming the pages and couldn't wait for the book to be over. I realize that Jody is a narcissist, but her character just got worse and worse in the book to the point I couldn't stand her. There were quite a few plot twists which I enjoyed and the ending was interesting. I won't say I regret reading this book, I just wish it was more of a subject that I enjoy reading about. I'm sure those who enjoy reading books based on Politics will truly enjoy this one.

Fascinating story from an author who as a politician's wife knows exactly what she's talking about here....

Who knew Kaira Rouda was an insider in this world? Not me!

Riveting, well-written, and incredibly engrossing this is one of Rouda's best and I've loved them all.

Thank you to the publisher for gifting me a copy. It was my pleasure to write an honest review!

Washington politics can be fierce and Kaira Rouda puts a spin on it by taking the reader inside the Beltway. You can’t make these things up; the characters are fictional but the story is close to the truth.

Jody Asher is the wife of the Honorable Martin Asher, a long-time Democratic Congressman from Ohio who is well known, powerful and one of the favorites on the hill. However, he’s letting things slip by entertaining an attractive, young intern. Plus, a reporter is searching for trails of abuse as it seems he may be accepting large gifts of money.

Meanwhile, Jody is enjoying the special privileges of being the wife of a highly-regarded senator. She loves the limelight of the glamourous events and mix of important leaders. And now, the biggest celebration with her daughter getting married is the talk of the town as many of the political friends will be there. However, her daughter is marrying into a Republican family. Her finance’s father is backing someone to take Asher’s district and using the rehearsal dinner as a political format. This is causing immense stress with Senator Asher as he tries to stay calm with his lovely wife by his side.

This book reveals exactly what is going on behind the scenes. DC is packed with back stabbers and those with the intention of winning. While, taxpayers may hope that the political leaders are working on issues such as climate change, health care and technology updates, it’s known that many are focused on their reelection. It’s an exciting, well-told story and a rush to get to the end to find out what happens which may or may not be agreeable. However, it’s a challenge to present political parties and issues when readers are on both sides.

My thanks to Kaira Rouda, Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for allowing me to read a copy of this book with the expected release date of November 15, 2022.

Plotting. Revenge. Instructions on living in the political arena.

I enjoyed this book! Rouda knows how to write despicable characters. Had no idea Visine could be poisonous. The things you learn from Kaira Rouda!

This book was available via NetGalley and I had to snatch it. Thank you for letting me read this.

I went in blindly. What attracted me, was the cover. It’s dark, it has no face and a beautiful set of pearls. Combined with the title? Yes, you’ve got me.

I don’t do well with politics in real life and apparently also not in books. After the first few chapters I was ready to dnf. Don’t get me wrong, I love to read about a good scheme.
Luckily for me, the book picked up. I like characters like Jody. Dark, twisted and calculating. I like a strong woman who can stand up for herself and take control. Martin in the other hand? Not my cup of tea. Screamed typical politician to me.
I liked reading about DC though.

After the rocky start, for me, the story picked up. I am glad I gave the book a chance. But still, I think I will stay away from political thrillers.

I received an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review

She just keeps getting better and better. I tore through this book and was very disappointed when it ended. I love Jody and I hope I see her again in another book down the line. I would devour anything with her in it

Plenty of drama. A little old school in thinking. But that’s just the character. It was a book with a narrator I was riveted by, and it wasn’t a bad read. It just only gets three stars because I thought some of the parts were a tad over dramatic. Still, this was a solid book and would read more from this author.

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the copy of The Widow. I was entranced from the beginning and I loved the little tips that started the chapters. I wonder if a book of tips like this really exists, because if not, Kaira Rouda should write one. Jody was an interesting character. She was smart and ambitious but not very likable. I kept thinking she must be exhausted all of the time trying to always work the angles, then would remember she’s a fictional character. Martin was such a disappointment but of course I won’t give spoilers. My feelings about the two of them point out how well-written the characters were because they felt so real to me. The writing really drew me in, it was easy to read and kept me wondering how the story would unfold. If you’re looking for a fun, fast read, with intrigue and great characters, pick up this book! 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.

Quite nice. Entertaining, though a bit shallow, and repetitive here and there. Plus, what begins to unfold as a political thriller turns into the midlife crisis of a woman, who is not ambitious but extremely selfish. There are a number of loose ends, too. I don‘t like stories, which begin, but don‘t end. Why the twists and turns, if they are not meant to lead to anything in the story? Sorry for being so cryptic, but I don’t want to spoil.

I love Kaira Rouda, and this one did not disappoint. Less of a thriller, more of a slow burn inside the fire of a woman scorned. They say behind every successful man is a woman, this one has a plan.

Jody is married to Martin he is an American Congressman, Martin is corrupt as are the people who work with him, Martin suddenly dies at all places his daughters wedding reception, Jody decides she will fulfill his place in congress until his term was supposed to end, Jody is quite a nasty person who is going to cause trouble for everyone around her including the people that crossed Martin, was a good book to read, but not really a thriller book

This is the first legal thriller I’ve read from the spouse’s POV. Though she went on to be more than the spouse! It was different & enjoyable.

This book was a little bit of a slow burn but it did keep my attention and made me want to find out what was about to happen. This book will keep you on your toes and make you read fill the end when finally everything you’ve been wondering is revealed!

Really enjoyable in a completely OTT way. I liked all of the detail about the US congress system (something I never thought I'd say - I actually learned quite a lot!). Characters were equally outlandish and I think there was maybe one or two plot twists too far but honestly a good old romp and the main character pleasantly villainous.