Such a Perfect Wife

February 25, 2019
Bestseller White’s highly entertaining eighth Bailey Weggins novel (after 2017’s Even if It Kills Her) takes Bailey on assignment for the online magazine Crime Beat to Lake George, N.Y., to look into the disappearance of 34-year-old Shannon Blaine. Shannon and her husband, Cody, a successful beverage distributor, seem to have had a perfect life—happily married, two darling children, respected in their idyllic community. As the police investigate where and how Shannon vanished one day on her morning run, Bailey seeks to learn what may have recently changed in the Blaine family. The one significant thing that Bailey uncovers is Shannon’s recommitting herself to the Catholic Church. Bailey teams with local reporter Alice Hatfield, and both find cracks in the Blaines’ lives that could have been a factor. The ethical and tenacious Bailey soon earns the respect of the local police, who come to see her as an ally rather than an intruder. Readers will cheer her every step of the way. Agent: Sandra Dijkstra, Sandra Dijkstra Literary.

Starred review from April 1, 2019

Shannon Blaine leaves her Lake George, NY, home to go jogging one morning, and disappears. Because she's a beautiful blonde wife and mother, the search draws some media attention. When Bailey Weggins agrees to cover the disappearance for an online magazine, she feels the adrenaline rush of investigating a case again and teams up with Alice Hatfield, a local reporter. The two quickly develop a grudging respect for each other, and when Bailey receives an anonymous call, she trusts Alice enough to ask her to accompany her to an old retreat center. They then discover Shannon's body but also the bodies of two other people. Once the news breaks, Bailey and Alice realize that they might have drawn the attention of a serial killer. However, both reporters are determined to uncover the truth in this riveting mystery with layers of stories and crimes. A strong feeling of menace runs throughout this intricately plotted eighth book in the series, following Even If It Kills Her. VERDICT Readers who appreciate investigative reporters caught up in dramatic stories, such as James Ziskin's "Ellie Stone" series or Thomas Kies's "Geneva Chase" mysteries, will savor this intense page-turner that never lets up.--Lesa Holstine, Evansville Vanderburgh P.L., IN

Copyright 2019 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Cynthia Farrell's straightforward narration, especially her calm, confident tone, assures listeners that no matter what struggles present themselves, Bailey Weggins will prevail. This crime series introduces the crime beat reporter and occasional sleuth. Farrell portrays her as pragmatic, analytical, determined, and, most importantly, likable. The story begins with the murder of a well-liked, church-going soccer mom who is out for her morning run and ends with deadly secrets revealed and justice served. This is a good example of a strong psychological suspense told in a clear, rich voice. D.L.G. � AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine