Husbands and Lovers: Book Review
Hi y’all! Today I’m reviewing Husbands and Lovers by Beatriz Williams!
GoodReads Rating: 4/5 stars
Separated by decades and continents, Husbands and Lovers immerses readers in the lives of two women whose stories are intertwined through love, ambition, and the secrets of their pasts. The novel highlights how societal expectations and personal choices shape the lives of women and men navigating the blurred lines of loyalty and desire. Williams’ signature dual timeline structure keeps readers guessing as connections between the characters are slowly unveiled.
Williams excels at painting scenes of both New England in 2022 and Cairo in 1951. From the revolutionary fires of midcentury Egypt to the moneyed beaches of modern New England, the setting feels alive and textured.
The protagonists are richly developed, with strengths, flaws, and motivations that make them feel genuine. Williams crafts complex relationships, particularly “husbands and lovers,” writing on the interplay of power, love, and loyalty. The novel highlights the struggles and triumphs of women carving out their identities in a world that often confines them to specific roles.
Williams excels in pacing. Secrets are revealed at just the right moments, keeping the reader engaged and eager to turn each page. The balance between romance and suspense is perfect, ensuring the emotional stakes remain high throughout.
My only complaint is the dual timeline felt slightly overcomplicated at times. As this was my first read by Williams and this is her signature writing style, I found myself flipping back to clarify details or character connections. Also, some characters could have benefited from further development to match the depth of the protagonists.
Husbands and Lovers does a great job of blending historical fiction with heartfelt love and betrayal. It is a testament to human resilience and complex relationships. I enjoyed Williams’ intricate plotting and learning about midcentury Egypt, something I knew very little about.
Thanks for reading!
