The Grass Widow Book Review

18 June 2024

Never judge a book by it’s cover! “The Grass Widow” is a delightful blend of mystery, dark humour and intricate plotting that pulls you into a tangled web of secrets and deception. The story centres on Leonie, who finds herself ditched by her married lover, Hugh, on the very day she loses her job. Driven by a mix of revenge and curiosity, Leonie infiltrates Hugh’s household as a cleaner with plans to expose his infidelity to his wife, Amanda. However, what she uncovers are not just traces of Hugh’s affairs, but startling secrets about Amanda herself.

Leonie is a captivating protagonist. Her initial motive for revenge quickly morphs into something more complex as she becomes entangled in the lives of the household. Edwards portrays Leonie’s transformation beautifully, capturing her transition from a scorned lover to a reluctant detective. Her sharp wit and unorthodox investigative methods add a layer of humour to the narrative, making her both relatable and entertaining.

The supporting characters are equally well-crafted. Brenda and Tina, fellow cleaners with their own hidden agendas, bring additional layers of intrigue. Brenda’s blackmail schemes and Tina’s quest for financial information create subplots that enrich the main storyline, each character’s motives intertwining in unexpected ways. This ensemble of morally ambiguous characters keeps you guessing about everyone’s true intentions, while you cannot help rooting for these women.

At the heart of the novel is Amanda’s gardener, a character who is both charming and sinister. His shady past and ambitious nature make him a key player in the unfolding drama. Edwards uses his character to explore themes of trust and betrayal, adding depth to the mystery. I loved the references to African phrases – it’s not often I read a book talking about a ‘braai”.

The setting of “The Grass Widow” is vividly depicted, with the house becoming a character in itself. The descriptions of the various rooms and hidden corners add to the atmosphere of suspense. Edwards’ writing style is crisp and engaging, with just the right balance of detail and pace to keep you hooked. I enjoyed how this book handles the theme of deception. Each character is hiding something, and as their secrets are gradually revealed, the tension builds to a satisfying climax. The death that occurs, initially deemed an accident, serves as the catalyst for Leonie’s deeper involvement in uncovering the truth.

This book is a thoroughly enjoyable read that combines sharp humour with a well-constructed mystery. Vanessa Edwards has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with a cast of characters who are as flawed as they are intriguing. This novel is a must-read for fans of mystery and anyone who enjoys a good tale of revenge and redemption.