Book Review: The Good Husband by Steve Frech
Ever since I stumbled upon Steve Frech’s previous works, I’ve been hooked on his knack for unraveling intricate plots thick with suspense and psychological depth. So, when I heard about his latest thriller, The Good Husband, I knew I was in for a ride that would have my heart racing and my mind spinning. And wow, did it deliver!
At the heart of this story is Mark Burcham, an ordinary guy living an idyllic life in Los Angeles with his wife, Amy, and their daughter, Tatum. But when Amy goes missing after a business trip and is later found dead, everything spirals into chaos. What struck me about Mark is how relatable he was; there’s a deeper emotional undercurrent to his desperation and confusion. This isn’t just a man seeking answers—it’s a dad trying to protect his family from an invisible threat, leading him down a dark path filled with secrets, lies, and unexpected dangers.
Frech does a magnificent job of weaving suspense and intrigue from the very first page. The pacing is rapid, with short chapters that perpetuate the feeling of urgency, each one serving to propel Mark deeper into his investigation. I found myself caught between needing to put the book down and the insatiable curiosity to know just one more twist. The way Frech elicits tension perfectly kept me on the edge of my seat. It’s like a rollercoaster—you need to strap in tight and trust the ride!
The narrative is full of well-drawn characters who feel authentic and layered. I particularly enjoyed the relationship dynamics between Mark and Tatum, as they navigate their grief in a world suddenly shrouded in suspicion. A memorable quote that resonated with me was, “Sometimes the hardest thing to see is the person standing right next to you.” This beautifully encapsulates how secrets, even those hidden behind loving facades, can fracture the closest of bonds.
Fans of psychological thrillers will find The Good Husband both refreshing and riveting. The twists are plentiful, but some readers may find them somewhat predictable. That said, there were plenty of moments that made my heart skip a beat—especially as danger encroaches upon Tatum, sending a very clear message: there are no boundaries when it comes to protecting your loved ones.
In conclusion, The Good Husband is more than just a fast-paced thriller—it’s a deeply emotional exploration of family, love, and the lengths one will go to protect what truly matters. It invites readers to question how well they know their partners or the secrets they might be hiding. If you enjoy gripping narratives that keep you pondering long after the final page, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this book a read. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Frech’s work or new to his writing, you won’t be disappointed. Grab a cozy spot, because once you dive in, you won’t want to come up for air!