I have looked at Emily Barr's books in the past but for some reason I have always put them back. However, after reading The First Wife, it is clear to see that I have been missing out.After the death of her grandparents, Lily Button is left without a home or family in the quiet corner of Cornwall where she grew up. When she's offered some cleaning work for local celebrity couple the Summers she is thrilled when the glamorous pair take her under their wing.
With her stunning house and dazzling husband Harry, Sarah Summers appears to have the perfect life. So why, on holiday in Barcelona, does she slip away from her husband and throw herself into the sea?
After Sarah's death, Lily finds herself inextricably drawn to the grieving Harry. But as she falls deeper under his spell, she realises that nothing is really as it seems...
The cover for The First Wife is very striking and I think that is how I would describe the book as a whole. I felt as though Emily Barr lures you into the book with the character of Lily Button and once you have got to know her then the author introduces a really gripping plot that holds your attention to the very last page.
Lily is such an innocent character, you can see why she is lured in by the Summers but I was not prepared for the devastating consequences that she has to face.
The First Wife has drawn comparisons with Daphne Du Maurier and I think it is deserved. The writing is very subtle and you find yourselves in the thick of a psychological thriller that perhaps you didn't expect.
I haven't discussed the plot too much as it would be too easy to spoil it but I'm very excited about how much I enjoyed this book. In the future I won't think twice about buying an Emily Barr novel and I am looking forward to catching up with her first two.
Many thanks to Headline for sending me a copy of the book to review, it is out on September 15th!
Dot Scribbles Rating 5/5
8 comments:
I am thinking a modern day Rebecca then! Am I right?
Vivienne- You are indeed but with a different twist- I really enjoyed it!
Many years ago I picked up Emily Barr's Cuban Heels. I really enjoyed it so I kept a lookout for more. She's been hit or miss for me, but I will definitely grab this one thanks to your review. (My favourite of hers so far is Backpack.)
Shan- I hope that you enjoy this one!
I've been looking for a new author and I think I'll give her a try. The book sounds interesting and you gave just enough details to where I want more. Thanks!
Alison- Thank you, hope you enjoy the book!
You have me intrigued. I've liked Emily Barr's books in the past, and one of her books with Cornwall and echooes of Du Maurier sounds perfect.
fleurfisher- It is the first one that I have read but it was really good.
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