The Neighbor's Wife by Jeanne Meeks

The Neighbor’s Wife is a thriller novel by Jeanne Meeks with a strong premise but a story that ultimately left me wanting more. Anna Croft seeks refuge in the home of her elderly neighbor Henry Peale after stabbing her alcoholic, abusive husband Darren.

On the surface, Anna and Henry are the unlikeliest of friends; however, Meeks has given them a shared love of gardening which serves as the foundation of their relationship. As the story develops, their different forms of PTSD – hers from being a victim of her husband and his from time served in the war – deepen their friendship.

Anna moves in with Henry and takes on a new identity as his caretaker. The Crofts had fallen months behind on their rent and their old home has new residents. Nosy neighbors and being hidden so close to home make it difficult to keep Anna’s past and new life a secret, and she and Henry are constantly on high alert.

I was about halfway through this book and almost stopped reading because it seemed like once Darren was locked up in jail, he became almost obsolete. We didn’t hear much from him or about him except when Anna was forced into revealing herself to various characters one at a time for a good portion in the middle. I’m one who loves a good antagonist, and as evil as Darren was, I would have loved to see more of him. Although he does resurface, Meeks gives more attention to the heroes of the book, Anna and Henry.

I kept reading though because I really wanted to see Anna overcome her past. I wanted justice for her. Her story is not uncommon and though she’s cast as a victim, it’s also evident that she’s strong, intelligent, independent and worthy.

I don’t know if this book is a standalone or part of a series, but the ending left the door wide open for a sequel and leaves the reader feeling hopeful for Anna.