My Thoughts
The Mistress is a psychological thriller that follows Hannah Parker, a very manipulative woman who makes it her life’s mission to pursue the married men and break up their families. After her latest husband discovers her duplicitous nature, Hannah sets her sights on Mark Shepherd, an old flame who is now very happily married with children.
Keogh does an excellent job capturing the calculating mindset and rationalizations of a very destructive narcissist. Hannah feels fully entitled to steal other women’s husbands, lying and scheming without any remorse. She is superficial, vain, and also lacks empathy, seeing the people around her as objects to acquire and then control.
The book is very gripping as Hannah intricately plans how she will insert herself into Mark’s life, trying to make him fall for her again. She is so convinced of her own charm and the weakness of the men that she believes with some effort, she can make any man leave his wife. It’s chilling to see the ease with which she breaks the many boundaries, spins the falsehoods, and tears the people’s lives apart.
The Mistress explores the provocative territory around the temptation, infidelity, and the complex psychology that drives the other woman. Hannah has depth as an unlikable, even sociopathic character, showcasing the ability some have to rationalize the harmful behavior. While despicable, she makes for a very fascinating character study. Fans of Gone Girl and also other domestic suspense stories with alarming antiheroines will swiftly turn the pages. Keogh delivers a tense, immersive portrayal of the obsession and homewrecking.
Thank you to Boldwood BooksĀ and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
