The Wife and the Widow by Christian White

Having thoroughly enjoyed White’s debut novel, The Nowhere Child, I couldn’t wait to read his latest. As usual, life got in the way and it wasn’t until work was put aside for Christmas that I was able to treat myself to this marvellous and structurally clever novel and immerse myself in its mystery.

Set on an island off the coast of Victoria Australia, the action occurs during winter, when most of the tourists have gone and the residents are left to live their usual lives. When a body is found, not only does the town begin to whisper and those whose lives are affected by the murder rush to cover up long-held secrets, but the newly minted widow arrives to pick up the pieces and discover what led to her husband’s death – a man, it swiftly becomes apparent, she didn’t really know as well as she thought.

Atmospheric, wonderful, stark and evocative prose, this is a book that will hold you in thrall as it slowly builds to a conclusion that when you see it coming will impress you for its craftiness.

Another wonderful read from White – I cannot wait to see what he produces next.

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