This felt like a telanovela and a domestic thriller had a baby— super messy and dramatic with lots of plot twists at the end! Although I agree that the thriller aspect of the book was more of a “slow-burn,” the plot was still engaging by encompassing rich-family drama and secrets that eventually lead to themes of betrayal and revenge. There was so much suspense and was overall fun to read.

“𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯.”

Thank you Mira Books for all the advanced readers copies, both physical and those through Netgalley! I chose to use the ALC and followed along periodically in the ARC. This one is out now!

A domestic and psychological thriller, I had my theories from the beginning and there are some predictable tropes. I felt that something was up with Matt because after he tells Emma that his first wife has passed he constantly name drops her (especially at the most “convenient” of times) and has plenty of other bright red flags but Emma isn’t without her own. She becomes obsessed with knowing everything she can about Matt’s first wife, tends to have her wealth on display (whether intentional or subconscious isn’t always clear), her self-professed independence but yet she’s easily swayed into quickly going deeper into this relationship, her impulsivity… frankly, neither character is likable.

I’ve never read any of Parks’ other works and to be honest, I hadn’t heard of her either. Though their premises are different, I felt the same tone in this as I did with The Last Mrs Parrish, which I didn’t much care for. But if you like that one you may enjoy this. The twists were expected and ultimately this was just okay for me. However, the audio was done really well and I liked the narrator, which probably helped keep me wanting to listen. I think I’m just wicked picky with my thrillers and appreciate having some originality with truly unexpected surprises. 2.75 rounded up to 3.

Content includes talk of death of a spouse, some sexual content (including brief and vague mentions of a three-some), stalking, some profanity, and mentions of death of parents.

<b> As a mystery/thriller reader, this was an easy 4.5 stars for me!</b>

<b>Synopsis:</b> A chance encounter during a conference leads Emma to meet younger man, Matthew, a recent widower who pulls her into his charms. Things move quickly, and Emma is head over heels for Matthew, and they marry quickly after. Emma is constantly left wondering if she can live up to Matthew’s past wife, and her friends are against the union from the start, and when something dark seems to be lurking in the shadows, Emma is left wondering what next steps to take…

<b>My Thoughts:</b> I HIGHLY recommend just going into this book without reading too many blurbs or reviews, because this was a whirlwind of twisty goodness. I was absolutely sucked in from the start and loved that I was kept guessing on what might happen next! This was my first novel from Adele Parks and will for sure not be my last!!!

<i><b> Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this awesome ARC in exchange for my honest review. <b></i>

Thanks to the Harlequin Trade Publishing and Netgalley for this eARC.

Adele Parks, a master of domestic suspense, returns with "First Wife's Shadow," a novel that burrows deep beneath the manicured lawns and curated lives of its characters, exposing the rot beneath. This isn't merely a thriller; it's a meticulously crafted psychological excavation, a slow burn that ignites into a conflagration of revelations.

The premise, deceptively simple, hinges on the arrival of a new wife, Emma, into the seemingly idyllic world previously inhabited by her husband's deceased first wife. Parks expertly uses the first wife's lingering presence – an unseen, yet omnipresent force – to create a suffocating atmosphere of unease. Emma's attempts to settle into her new life are constantly undermined by the shadow of perfection, a ghost that haunts not just the house, but the very fabric of her marriage.

Parks' excels with the nuanced exploration of grief, jealousy, and the insidious nature of memory in this story.

The narrative unfolds with a measured pace, allowing the reader to inhabit Emma's growing disquiet. Parks' writing is sharp, precise, and imbued with a palpable sense of dread.

The supporting characters, far from being mere plot devices, are richly drawn and complex. Each harbors their own secrets, their own motivations, contributing to the novel's intricate web of deceit. Parks deftly avoids the predictable tropes of the genre, instead crafting a narrative that is both surprising and deeply unsettling.

The novel is less about the "whodunit" and more about the "why" and "how." It delves into the dark corners of human relationships, exploring the destructive power of obsession and the insidious ways in which the past can shape the present.

Parks forces the reader to question the reliability of memory and the nature of truth itself.

The climax, when it arrives, is shocking and inevitable, a culmination of the simmering tension that has been building throughout the narrative.

It's a testament to Parks' skill as a storyteller that she manages to deliver a satisfying resolution while leaving the reader with a lingering sense of unease.

"First Wife's Shadow" is a novel that demands attention, a psychological thriller that is a testament to Adele Parks' mastery of the genre, solidifying her position as a writer who can deliver both gripping suspense and profound emotional depth.

This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a meticulously crafted, thought-provoking thriller that delves into the darkest recesses of the human heart. It is a haunting exploration of the shadows we all carry, and the devastating consequences of letting them define us.

3.75 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ .75 stars!! Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC and ALC. This story follows Emma who never expected to fall this hard, this fast, but then she meets Matthew. He’s younger, charming, and practically perfect. The kind of guy who makes you believe in fate. But there’s just one little problem. Matthew is a recent widower, and his first wife’s presence still lingers, like a shadow Emma can’t quite escape.

At first, she tells herself to be patient. Grief is complicated, and she wants to give him time. But the more she learns, the more uneasy she feels. Matthew says he’s ready to move on but is he really. What really happened to his late wife? The more Emma digs, the more it seems like she may never truly step out of the woman’s shadow.

Her friends are waving all kinds of red flags, warning her she’s moving way too fast. But Emma doesn't feel like she is, and maybe they’re just jealous of her whirlwind romance. Or they know something she doesn’t.

This book pulled me in from the first page and didn’t let go. It’s got that perfect mix of suspense, drama, and something doesn't seem right vibes. Every time I thought I had it figured out, then another twist. If you want a popcorn thriller that keep you guessing until the end, I definitely recommend.

Thank you NetGalley! I love this author! This book was interesting and had a different atmosphere than others I’ve read. It started ok, but was a little slow. I couldn’t stay focused on the story and finish it

I’ve had a few Adele Parks books on my TBR for a while, and this book makes me want to go read them all. First Wife’s Shadow was so twisted and captivating! I had a theory early on where this was going, and it went there…and even beyond my expectations, which left me eager to keep reading right up to the last page.

Thank you Harlequin Trade Publishing for the gifted book.

I have never been so annoyed with a storyline, yet also so invested at the same time. Honestly, these characters had me charged. I did not like ANY Of them.

Told in muliptle points of view, it kind of jumps around timelines but is not overly complicated to follow. Main characters are Emma, Matthew and then half way through, a third character POV is introduced.

I was extremely irritated. Emma, who is a successful CEO who fought stereotypes and gender biases to reach the top, falls ridiculously fast in love with Matthew. Despite the fact the reader is blinded by an onslaught of red flags, she jumps into a quick relationship and...marriage. (insert my WTH face here!)

Emma's friends are concerned and while I find this very admirable and "girl code" about it, I am annoyed they give up so easy. I would be going full on "social media detective" on this guy. As if there is nothing out there on him.

Anyhoooo, yeah. This book made me livid in emotion but I needed to see it through. While the storyline is at times predictable and over the top, it made for an entertaining (albeit blood pressure rising) read.

3.5 ⭐️

While I can't say I absolutely loved the writing style or overuse of British slang (a personal pet peeve as an American reader, which I know is inherently biased), this book just kept ramping up with each and every chapter. It started off a little slow and quickly grabbed me by the throat. The mid reveals were strong but the end reveals felt a tad weaker and more predictable. Overall I do like the ending, but it felt like the motive was lacking to the overall plot. There were things that didn't quite make sense to me in the characterization of the MC's, but it was a super fun read regardless.

If you are looking for a twisty domestic thriller than First Wifes Shadow is one to read. Adele Parks does an admirable job creating a tense mystery that explores the themes of obsession, jealousy, and marriage.

Read this if you enjoy:
-slow burns
-multiple POVs
-the dark side of marriage and trying to compete with a dead spouse from a previous marriage
-unreliable narrators
-supernatural aspect of feeling haunted
-gaslighting
-strong successful female protagonist
-a glimpse into the life of a wealthy female CEO
-how the past can destroy your future
-twists and turns with a satisfying ending

My rating 4.5 out of 5

Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing MIRA for this eARC that will be published March 18 2025.

fun and well-written thriller with good ideas and strong theme. would probably recommend. 4 stars. tysm for the arc.

Is this book full of red flags that had me frustrated with our leading lady? Totally. Was I also thoroughly absorbed in this addictive thriller with major twists? You bet. One helluva ride!

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

When Emma meets Matthew, a kind, handsome widower, she is immediately drawn to him. Yet, as their relationship moves very quickly, Emma’s friends have their doubts about Matthew and begin to question his intentions. After all, she is a rich woman and he doesn’t have much to his name. Although this doesn’t bother Emma, what does bother her is the constant reminders of his dead first wife. Emma begins to wonder if she will ever measure up. As their relationship gets more serious, strange things start happening, and Emma begins to wonder if she is going crazy or if it has anything to do with Matthew late
If Matthew’s wife hadn’t died, he wouldn’t be with her. And Emma wonders if she’s second best. Can she ever fill the dead woman’s shoes?

As jealousy and suspicion grows between Emma and Matthew, things take a darker, dangerous turn. Emma starts to question everything and begins to realize that there are things that don’t totally add up about Matthew, such as why she has never seen his home and why he never discusses the specifics about his wife’s death. Emma realizes that she doesn’t know who she can trust anymore. Everyone becomes suspicious to her and she is suddenly questioning her friends, her husband’s and even herself.

This book is twisty, suspenseful, and unpredictable. I enjoyed the multiple points of view and trying to figure out what was happening and who was behind it all! It’s full of secrets, lies, lies and many surprises…I felt bad for Emma but at the same time, I wanted to knock some sense into her! The book is also full of questionable characters, which made it hard to know who to trust. Thriller fans should definitely pick this one up and find out for themselves!

Thank you to NetGalley and Mira for the ARC of Adele's Parks First Wife's Shadow!

Although the beginning was slow for me, about half way through it got I interesting and the ending I definitely did not see coming!

Decent thriller but not particularly memorable. I feel like this thriller plot has been around the block a few times. Nothing truly original here. But kept my attention and was a quick read.

Emma is a successful and very wealthy CEO of her own business. Now in her 40’s, she has pretty much given up on finding a spouse and is confident and focused on her career. Then she meets Matthew, a photographer who attends a conference she is speaking at and her focus suddenly changes. Matthew has recently lost his wife and his charming and kind ways attract her attention. Matthew seems to feel the same way about Emma and soon their relationship blooms. But his late wife seems to still be present between them as he constantly refers to her and seems to compare Emma to her. Emma’s friends are not thrilled by her new boyfriend and try to warn her not to move too fast. As things progress, strange acts of vandalism to her home occur and Emma begins to question not only Matthew, but her friends and even her own sanity. Is he the soulmate and spouse of her dreams? Or is there some other motivation behind his actions. This was a fast paced and very twisty novel! Love this author! I gave it four solid stars!

This was a fun a fast-paced read, centered on Emma, a CEO in her 40s who has given up on love when she meets Matthew, a younger man that seems like a perfect fit. They have a whirlwind romance but she feels overshadowed by his talk of his first wife and always feels like she will be 2nd place. All kinds of weird things start happening and Emma is steadfast in her support of her new man, even though her friends are wary.

The major twist in this book is really well done and I did not see it coming. The stuff that was happening to Emma was legitimately creepy and the author did a great job of making the reader unsure whether she was a reliable narrator or not. I did think Emma's personality entirely changed from the beginning of the book as it went on, which was kind of odd- I don't know why the author made such an effort to paint a picture of her to only make her not act that way anymore later. I did like her friends, though, and felt like the dynamic between them felt real. The book moves at a bit of a slower pace for the first half, but I thought it set the atmosphere well for the stuff that happened in the 2nd half. The end was well done and even had a few more twists- I felt that it worked with the story.

Overall, this was a fun read, despite a couple small nits. I would recommend to those who like domestic suspense and psychological thrillers. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Solidly compelling thriller with lots of excellent twists. Even though I figured some things out before they happened, I certainly didn't see everything coming. My recommendation is to just go into this blind, go with the flow and let the story unfold.

In general, this is the story of Emma, a high powered CEO in her late 40s who has never been married. She meets Matthew, a younger widower, and they fall for each other quickly. But Matthew's grief is still fresh, and Emma feels as if she's competing for his affection with a dead woman.

I listened to this latest offering by Adele Parks as an audiobook. Kristin Atherton does a superb job at ratcheting up the suspense while moving the narrative along briskly.

Very little in this tale is as it seems. Everyone has secrets and I loved the way everything was slowly revealed. This is a wild rollercoaster ride where you won't be sure who is telling the truth or if there is a motive behind what is going on.

If you're looking for a fun thriller, grab your popcorn and give this one a try.

3⭐️

I'm conflicted on this one. I think the main twist was done very well and I spent a lot of time trying to decide if this was going to be a paranormal thriller or if it was something else. I also loved Emma's friends and how protective they were of her. It's always hard when you can see your friend is making a mistake and no matter how hard you warn them, they have to find out on their own.

The pacing of this was very inconsistent. The first almost 200 pages was from Emma's POV and it was just so slow that I almost DNF'd. When the POV switched and revealed the twist I was locked in again and the pacing really picked up. I love an unhinged, unreliable narrator character and the different POV was right up my alley. The initial story wrapped up well but there were still 40+ pages left where the author tried to fit in at least three more twists that made if feel like she was trying too hard.

Thanks Netgalley and Mira Books for providing this ARC to me!

Wow! This book had so many twists and unexpected turns, it definitely kept my attention. I loved how it was told through different points of view. Great book!