I wish I could give 3.5 stars. It was an interesting book but it was slightly predictable. I really enjoyed the beginning.

Daniel Hurst delivers a gripping domestic thriller with The Husband, a novel that expertly blends suspense, psychological tension, and family drama. With its eerie premise and relentless pacing, the book keeps readers questioning the truth behind a seemingly perfect marriage and whether the man you love could be capable of murder.

Plot & Suspense
The story follows a devoted wife who has spent over two decades happily married to Lachlan, a kind and loving husband, with whom she shares a picture-perfect life. However, her world is shaken when her best friend plants a seed of doubt: why has Lachlan lived near not one, but two unsolved murders? At first, she dismisses it as mere coincidence, but as Lachlan’s behavior begins to shift—growing more irritable and secretive—her suspicions take root.

Determined to uncover the truth, she embarks on a journey to Lachlan’s past in the Scottish Highlands, hoping to put her fears to rest. What she finds, however, is a tangled web of secrets, deception, and danger that threatens not only her marriage but the safety of her entire family. As layers of the past unravel, the tension mounts, culminating in a thrilling climax that will keep readers on edge until the very last page.

Characters & Themes
Hurst crafts a compelling protagonist—a wife torn between love and suspicion, wrestling with the horrifying possibility that her husband may not be the man she thought he was. Her internal struggle, as she balances trust, fear, and the need to protect her children, feels authentic and emotionally resonant. Lachlan, too, is a fascinating character, his charm and kindness clashing with the ominous shadow of doubt cast over him.

The novel explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the lengths we go to protect the ones we love. It delves into the psychological turmoil of doubt within a marriage, highlighting how easily the foundation of a relationship can be shaken by the smallest hint of suspicion.

Writing Style & Pacing
Hurst’s writing is crisp and engaging, effectively building suspense with short, punchy chapters that compel readers to keep turning the pages. The atmospheric descriptions of the Scottish Highlands add an eerie, almost gothic quality to the novel, enhancing the sense of isolation and danger. The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of quiet tension giving way to shocking revelations that keep the story unpredictable.

Highlights
• Unrelenting Suspense: The novel keeps readers guessing with expertly placed twists and turns.
• Emotional Depth: The protagonist’s inner turmoil and maternal instincts add a layer of realism and depth to the psychological suspense.
• Atmospheric Setting: The Scottish Highlands provide a haunting backdrop that enhances the tension and mystery.

Final Thoughts
The Husband is a fast-paced, suspenseful read that will appeal to fans of domestic thrillers and psychological suspense. Daniel Hurst masterfully keeps readers on edge, questioning the nature of trust and the hidden darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of even the most perfect lives. With its chilling premise and satisfying twists, this novel is sure to leave readers second-guessing everyone around them.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
A must-read for those who love domestic thrillers with a dark, psychological edge.

This book kept me very engaged. I would stay up way too late to read this book. The ending had me on the edge of my seat.
The characters were so very developed. The story line flowed really well and kept my attention. I enjoyed it so much I'm now reading all Daniel's other books!

The writing in this book was top-notch, no doubt about it. The prose flowed beautifully, and the descriptions of the Scottish Highlands made me feel like I was right there, soaking in the eerie atmosphere. But if I’m honest, the thriller aspect didn’t quite deliver for me. I started the book with high expectations, thanks to the glowing reviews, but it turned out to be more of a domestic drama with suspenseful elements than a full-blown thriller.
This was my first book by the author, and despite my mixed feelings, it certainly won’t be my last. The twist? Well, that came early on, which kind of shifted the narrative into more of a cat-and-mouse game toward the end. Don’t get me wrong, it was still engaging, but it didn’t have me on the edge of my seat like I’d hoped.
Jenny, the FMC, was a bit of a mixed bag for me. Her nagging and overthinking got a little tiresome at times, but then again, who wouldn’t start spiraling with doubts when faced with such circumstances? The dual POV, alternating between Jenny and Lachlan, kept the story fresh and offered a deeper look into their dynamic. It’s always fascinating to see how differently two people perceive the same situation.
While this one didn’t fully satisfy my thriller cravings, I enjoyed the journey for its character exploration and the beautifully crafted setting. If you’re in the mood for a slow-burn domestic mystery with a touch of marital tension, this might just hit the spot!

3.75 stars.
Daniel Hurst never disappoints if you are looking for a fast paced, plot driven popcorn thrillers which is UK based. I've always said he is the most similar to Frieda Mcfadden this side of the Atlantic.
This one was slightly different in that we get a dual POV Jenny (the wife) and Lachlan (the husband). Jenny who is in the dark knowledge wise and Lachlan who is the sinner in this story. Lachlan is open (to us the reader) about that fact, which is why this book is different to most. It is not about who is the killer, it is about how he got away with it and will he continue to get away with it. It's about us knowing the truth when all the others don't!
This cat and mouse game from the mouse's point of view i guess? Will have you turning the pages quickly and perhaps even secretly routing for The Husband!
Full disclosure wasn't a big fan of Jenny, I didn't find her very believable especially at the end! Please!...
Many thanks to Bookouture for providing me with a copy of the book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Ever since I was introduced to @danielhurstbooks novels through @bookouture last year, Ive been hooked!

So its no surprise that this kept me up all night reading!

How well do you ever really know another person?

It's:An absolute page turner,
A Psychological thriler,
Gripping,
Fast-paced,
Intense, Got so many multiple great twists,
Secrets,
Lies,
Deception,
Tension,
Revelations,
Dual POV's,
Addictive,
Thought - provoking,
Domestic Suspense,
Lead characters - Jenny & Lachlan - lets say, interesting,Ending is OH MY GOD - i did not see it coming at ALL!

Is the man you love a killer?

Ive been married to my kind, loving husband Lachlan for over 20 years. He's my everything. We have 2 teenage children, a beautiful home, & I feel so lucky to live this perfect life. Until my best friend says something that makes me doubt everything...

She whispers it's strange, Lachlan has lived nearby to 2 unsolved murder cases. First, the murder of the woman in the small, Scottish village hwere he grew up &, more recently, the shocking death of a woman who lived around the corner of us. The thought makes my head spin. It's just a coincidence, surely?
But at home, I can't he;p but notice that Lachlan's becoming angry, not at all like his usual self. It makes me wonder if he's hiding something from me. It makes me winder if he could be guilty. I push the thought away, but no matter what, I can't get rid of this niggle of doubt.

The only way to find out is to go to Scotland and get my husband to face his past. But when secrets start to unravel in the remote Scottish Highlands, I realize the truth is more complicated than I thought, & more than one person could be a killer.

Now my children and I are in terrible danger. And coming here might be the last mistake I ever make.

Highly recommend!!!!

@coffeeandpages2021

The Husband by Daniel Hurst is one of those compelling novels that I didn’t want to put down!
I’ve become a huge fan of Daniel Hurst’s books recently. They are fast-paced thrillers, but always very unique and with an interesting twist. This latest one is no exception.
I was completely immersed in this clever story which was executed brilliantly with some nerve-jittering suspense and, for me, the ending was great.
A really gripping read that is also emotive and thought-provoking, this is one to set time aside for as you won’t want to put it down once you start reading it.

The Husband is another quick, easy and wacky read by Daniels Hurst. It focuses on the Ferguson family: Lachlan (the husband), Jenny (his wife), Bonnie (17 year old daughter) and William (15 year old son). At first, Lachlan seems like an average, okay guy, but we soon learn some potentially troubling things about him. When the family goes to spend a long weekend in Lachlan’s home town, the craziness begins. The first half of the book was a little slow, but then the second half was a page-turner full of action and tension. Neither Lachlan nor Jenny are especially likable characters, but together, their interactions and conduct make for an interesting and fun read. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the digital ARC.

Hurst does it again. His books have never once disappointed me!

Jenny and Lachlan have been married for 20 years and have two teenage children. Jenny feels like she has it all, perfect husband, amazing kids and everything she has ever hoped for. Until, the documentary, the conversation with her best friend, and the little trip they take. Is Lachlan who he says he is?

Pros
Short chapters
Super engaging
Easy to read
Relatable themes

Cons
None I can think of

This is the first book I’ve read by this Daniel Hurst. I love psychological thrillers and plan to read more of his books! I was hooked from the first chapter and read this book in one night. From the beginning of this book, my mind was reeling and couldn't wait to see what happens next. I love suspense thriller books! Such a great book and I highly recommend!! So, so good!

This book is still very much Daniel Hurst but also a bit of a departure from his normal narrative. We follow the family on a trip to Scotland where the husband does not want to go. Again, it is a well written story but I constantly kept thinking that the wife was wrong to go against the husbands wishes. It is a mark of the good story telling that I felt like that as I felt frustrated that she would do it. I've yet to read a Daniel Hurst story which doesn't engage me and that I can find fault with. The editing of the book is flawless. Some books you pick up on a mistype error or continuity error but so far I have not found any poems with the stories even with ARC copies. I still recommend these books as something to get you pondering the situation and thinking about the story. With thanks to the author,Netgalley and Bookouture for this copy.

A fantastic, fast-paced book that’s completely addictive. The suspense and momentum build steadily, making it a gripping and immersive read. I’ll definitely be checking out more from this author!

As always with Daniel Hurst's books I found myself being unsure of who to trust and I had to keep reading until i had my questions answered.

Thank you to the publisher Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC! All opinions are my own.

Jenny and Lachlan have been married for 20 years now, raising two teenagers. On the surface, they have a good life, and their children are getting closer to finishing school and entering university. What Jenny doesn't know, though, is that her husband has been hiding a deep dark secret for the past 25 years. Little did Lachlan know as well, was his secret may be exposed in an unsolved crime documentary, a crime that he committed back in his home town.

When Jenny suggested they go back to his home town to learn more about his past, spurred on by the recent documentary, Lachlan was adamant he did not want to go back. Why would he return to the scene of the crime and risk himself? Jenny becomes suspicious but unsure why. Can she trust her husband? What big secret is he hiding? And is she putting herself and her children at risk?

This book was a fast-paced page turner. The chapters were short, and the dual POV between Jenny and Lachlan gave insights into their thinking and what's pushing them to do what they do. I love discovering new authors and Daniel Hurst will be on my list to read more of in the future!

I’ve been married to my kind, loving husband Lachlan for over twenty years. He’s my everything. We have two teenage children, a beautiful home and I feel so lucky to live this perfect life. Until my best friend says something that makes me doubt everything…

She whispers it’s strange Lachlan has lived nearby to two unsolved murder cases. First, the murder of the woman in the small, Scottish village where he grew up and more recently the shocking death of a woman who lived round the corner from us. The thought makes my head spin. It’s just a coincidence, surely?

But at home, I can’t help but notice that Lachlan’s becoming angry, not at all like his usual self. It makes me wonder if he’s hiding something from me. It makes me wonder if he could be guilty. I push the thought away, but no matter what, I can’t get rid of this niggle of doubt.

Another fast-paced entertaining story from Daniel Hurst! Fast-paced, interesting characters, lots of plot twists - and I didn't see the end coming! I love it when thriller authors can do that! Highly recommended! 4.5⭐

I received an advanced complimentary digital copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed are my own.

In The Husband, Daniel Hurst delivers a domestic thriller that feels like a Netflix documentary brought to life—complete with unsolved mysteries, shocking revelations, and a family’s unraveling secrets. Lauchlan and Jenny’s seemingly ordinary suburban life is turned upside down when the whispers of a scandalous documentary hit their quiet neighborhood. What follows is a slow-burn descent into lies, manipulation, and the lengths people will go to protect their past—or uncover it.

The question at the center of the story, "What is my husband hiding?", becomes Jenny’s obsession, driving her to uncover the truth behind Lauchlan’s increasingly erratic behavior. Meanwhile, Lauchlan is equally determined to bury the skeletons of his past, leading to a tense and emotionally charged power struggle. Both are willing to risk everything to get what they want, but at what cost? As secrets come to light, their family is forever changed in ways they never anticipated.

The novel shines in its exploration of the dynamics of trust, betrayal, and the fragility of picture-perfect appearances. Hurst skillfully crafts a journey that loops back to the prologue, keeping readers engaged as the tension builds. However, the rapid shifts in character progression felt jarring at times. Lauchlan and Jenny’s initial personalities and motivations were so well-defined in the beginning that their abrupt spirals into extreme behavior felt misaligned with their introductions. The pacing during their fateful weekend in the small town could have benefited from a bit more depth and exploration, allowing the unraveling to feel more organic and satisfying for readers who savor the journey as much as the destination.

That said, The Husband excels in delivering twists that keep you turning the pages, even if some feel slightly rushed. Fans of domestic thrillers and slow-burning mysteries will appreciate the tension and complex power plays between the characters. It’s a quick, engaging read that asks provocative questions about how far we’ll go to protect our secrets—and whether we can ever truly escape them. While the story doesn’t quite stick the landing in terms of pacing, it’s still a solid pick for those who enjoy psychological thrillers with a domestic edge. Hurst reminds us that behind every seemingly perfect life, there’s often a storm brewing just beneath the surface.

I do enjoy daniel hurst's writing style, he draws you in & his books are an easy read that I fly throuhg! This book was no exception I read it in one sitting, it was very good & entertaining

This gave me serious freida McFadden vibes! I was pleasantly surprised at how much I got into it! I spent the whole book wondering if I was right or wrong about things that were implied. The ending was good, I can totally see maybe a sequel!

This might be his best one yet! Likeable characters, fast paced suspense with a great ending. I can see a sequel for this.

The Husband by Daniel Hurst is a fast-paced psychological thriller that asks the age old question... How well do you know your spouse? Jenny and Lachlan have been married for 20 years and they have two children, William age 15 and Bonnie who is almost 18. Bonnie is almost off to University so Jenny is trying to have all the mother/daughter bonding time that she can. One night Bonnie's new interest in true crime leads Jenny and her to watch a documentary about the murder of a teen in Scotland. Imagine their shock when they learn that the tiny town where Paisley was killed in was where Lachlan grew up. Did he know the victim? How much does he know about what happened that night? Jenny thinks that a holiday to Lachlan's hometown is the best of both worlds. A trip with the family all together before Bonnie leaves the nest, and a chance to see where her husband grew up. Little does she know, Lachlan has secrets to hide, secrets he will do anything to keep concealed.
Daniel Hurst is an auto buy author for me! His thrillers are all fast-paced and full of twists and this one is no different. Addicting and filled with secrets The Husband was unputdownable. Told in dual POVs of Jenny and Lachlan, you get a great sense of foreboding and you can see Lachlan become more sinister as his secrets get closer to the light of day. Another great read from Daniel Hurst!
Thank you to NetGalley, Daniel Hurst, and Bookouture for this ARC. Expected release date is January 20th 2025.