Interesting look at a group of dysfunctional characters. None really sympathetic. Candidly not much to like about any of them. So at first, you may wonder just where the author is heading, and this is a story that has innumerable twists and turns. I consider myself a talented armchair detective but in THE WIFE BEFORE Shanora Williams is pretty transparent about the bad guys or gals. It’s your job to put the puzzle pieces together. And they are all there if you pay attention.

Samira is the leading character. In a movie, you would think of her as the star. But Samira has led a life of misdirection and lousy choices. Doesn’t seem able to hold down a job and now her brother’s life is getting complicated. Meaning, he has to stop supporting Samira. She meets Roland who is way beyond her in too many ways to mention. And yet when Roland shows some interest, Samira jumps at the chance to escape her own disappointing life. So off she goes following Roland to his Colorado secluded mansion. Certainly not painting a particularly good picture so far. But that is just the tip of the iceberg.

To describe Samira as a tragic figure is not really a stretch. She does not understand the concept of risk. And is not looking for love. There is a song with the lyrics, looking for love in all the wrong places. Well, it totally fits Samira. Roland would be able to support her in an amazing lifestyle. So they wind up together.

At this point, you will probably think this girl is nuts and you wouldn’t be far from the truth. At so many points in THE WIFE BEFORE Samira is a fount of useless information and awful decisions. And that is the trajectory of THE WIFE BEFORE by Shanora Williams.

Lots of bumpy roads to travel. Some scenes defy reality and possibility. But this is a sexy, twist-filled psycho drama according to the back cover and that does truly lay it out for the reader. Once you get into the storyline you are hooked. Can’t wait to see what else is going to happen. And trust me the mystery continues to the very last passage on the last page. A terrific book for a book club. Lots of material to discuss and questions to hopefully answer. Enjoy.