The Husbands: A Novel
A GOOD MORNING AMERICA BOOK CLUB PICK
“Chandler Baker, queen of the feminist thriller, has delivered once again! The Husbands is a poignant exploration of what it would take for women to have it all." —Sally Hepworth, bestselling author of The Good Sister
To what lengths will a woman go for a little more help from her husband?
Nora Spangler is a successful attorney but when it comes to domestic life, she packs the lunches, schedules the doctor appointments, knows where the extra paper towel rolls are, and designs and orders the holiday cards. Her husband works hard, too… but why does it seem like she is always working so much harder?
When the Spanglers go house hunting in Dynasty Ranch, an exclusive suburban neighborhood, Nora meets a group of high-powered women—a tech CEO, a neurosurgeon, an award-winning therapist, a bestselling author—with enviably supportive husbands. When she agrees to help with a resident’s wrongful death case, she is pulled into the lives of the women there. She finds the air is different in Dynasty Ranch. The women aren’t hanging on by a thread.
But as the case unravels, Nora uncovers a plot that may explain the secret to having-it-all. One that’s worth killing for. Calling to mind a Stepford Wives gender-swap, New York Times bestselling author of Whisper Network Chandler Baker's The Husbands imagines a world where the burden of the “second shift” is equally shared—and what it may take to get there.
“Utterly engrossing and thoroughly timely, The Husbands is both a gripping, well-crafted mystery and an insightful critique of motherhood and marriage in the modern age--working mothers everywhere will feel seen in the best possible way.”
—Kimberly McCreight, New York Times bestselling author of A Good Marriage
In Chandler Baker's thought-provoking novel, "The Husbands," we delve into the complex dynamics of a marriage and the challenges of navigating infidelity. Set in contemporary Los Angeles, the story revolves around a married couple, Nora and Will, whose relationship is tested when Nora discovers her husband's affair with a younger woman.
With raw emotion and keen insight, Baker explores the aftermath of betrayal, the struggle for forgiveness, and the intricate choices individuals make in the face of adversity. Nora embarks on a journey of self-discovery, delving into her own vulnerabilities and questioning the foundations of her marriage. Will, grappling with the consequences of his actions, must confront his own demons and find a way to rebuild trust and reconcile with his wife.
Amidst the turmoil, Baker delves into the lives of secondary characters, each harboring their own secrets and complexities. Through their interactions, the novel weaves a rich tapestry of relationships, exploring themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of human connection. With its honest portrayal of marriage, infidelity, and the search for redemption, "The Husbands" offers readers a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of the human heart.
Chandler Baker's writing style is characterized by its emotional depth, sharp observations, and nuanced characterization. Her prose is both lyrical and evocative, drawing readers into the emotional landscape of her characters and making them deeply invested in their lives. "The Husbands" is a must-read for fans of contemporary fiction, relationship dramas, and stories that delve into the complexities of human nature.
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