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The Second Wife
Not yet published
Expected 12 Mar 26The Fairchild family have it all. At least that's what anyone watching the family of billionaires board the opulent Titan Pacifica would think.
But as Sydney Harbour Bridge starts to disappear in the rear-view window of the luxury liner, so too does any pretence that this is a happy family.
Unbeknownst to his children, CEO and patriarch Irving had planned to use the cruise to reveal his long-awaited succession plans. As glasses clink and elaborate dinners are served to the most notorious of Sydney's elite, it will soon become all too clear that family loyalty can only take you so far.
And although six embark on the journey of a lifetime, not all of the group will make it back to dry land again . . .
Dripping with scandal, secrets, grandeur and greed, THE SECOND WIFE is an unputdownable thriller, perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty and Sally Hepworth.
But as Sydney Harbour Bridge starts to disappear in the rear-view window of the luxury liner, so too does any pretence that this is a happy family.
Unbeknownst to his children, CEO and patriarch Irving had planned to use the cruise to reveal his long-awaited succession plans. As glasses clink and elaborate dinners are served to the most notorious of Sydney's elite, it will soon become all too clear that family loyalty can only take you so far.
And although six embark on the journey of a lifetime, not all of the group will make it back to dry land again . . .
Dripping with scandal, secrets, grandeur and greed, THE SECOND WIFE is an unputdownable thriller, perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty and Sally Hepworth.
- GenresThriller
Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 12, 2026
2 people are currently reading
291 people want to read
About the author
Ali Lowe
6 books320 followersAli Lowe is the author of bestselling novels The Trivia Night, The Running Club, The School Run and The Private Island. Ali is a journalist by profession: she was Features Editor at OK! in London and has written widely for magazines, websites and newspapers. She has dual Australian and British citizenship and lives in Sydney with her family. Follow Ali on Instagram @ali_lowe_author
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Out 4th June 2026
I had the absolute pleasure of reading an early copy of The Second Wife, and honestly… this is Ali Lowe at her very best.
Set against the glittering, claustrophobic luxury of a billionaire family cruise, this novel drips with tension from the very first page. What looks like wealth, privilege and perfection quickly fractures into secrets, power plays and deeply buried resentments. The atmosphere is immaculate — opulent, unsettling, and simmering with menace.
Ali Lowe has such a gift for writing family dynamics: the quiet rivalries, the unspoken grudges, the way love and loyalty can curdle into something dangerous. Every character felt layered and compelling, and I was constantly questioning motives, alliances and who could be trusted. The pacing is spot-on, the twists are sharp, and the final act is utterly gripping.
And if, like me, you love the Bravo Below Deck franchise, this book is an absolute treat. It has all the glossy excess, simmering tensions and behind-the-scenes power plays you crave, blended perfectly with the sharp social commentary and slow-burn unease of The White Lotus. Think luxury yachts, privileged guests, secrets bubbling just beneath the surface — and the delicious sense that something is about to go very, very wrong. If Below Deck and The White Lotus had a dark, addictive thriller baby… this would be it. As always with Ali Lowe, I highly recommend xx
I had the absolute pleasure of reading an early copy of The Second Wife, and honestly… this is Ali Lowe at her very best.
Set against the glittering, claustrophobic luxury of a billionaire family cruise, this novel drips with tension from the very first page. What looks like wealth, privilege and perfection quickly fractures into secrets, power plays and deeply buried resentments. The atmosphere is immaculate — opulent, unsettling, and simmering with menace.
Ali Lowe has such a gift for writing family dynamics: the quiet rivalries, the unspoken grudges, the way love and loyalty can curdle into something dangerous. Every character felt layered and compelling, and I was constantly questioning motives, alliances and who could be trusted. The pacing is spot-on, the twists are sharp, and the final act is utterly gripping.
And if, like me, you love the Bravo Below Deck franchise, this book is an absolute treat. It has all the glossy excess, simmering tensions and behind-the-scenes power plays you crave, blended perfectly with the sharp social commentary and slow-burn unease of The White Lotus. Think luxury yachts, privileged guests, secrets bubbling just beneath the surface — and the delicious sense that something is about to go very, very wrong. If Below Deck and The White Lotus had a dark, addictive thriller baby… this would be it. As always with Ali Lowe, I highly recommend xx
December 16, 2025
This was such a clever, addictive read. The Second Wife unfolds as a journey in every sense of the word — emotionally and psychologically at first, and then quite literally as the story plays out aboard the fictional Titan Pacific cruise through the South Pacific. What begins as something glamorous and opulent slowly reveals a far more menacing undercurrent once the Fairchild family boards.
Told through multiple POVs and layered with transcripts from the podcast The Deadliest Cruise of All Time, this story completely pulled me in. The podcast elements were such a clever narrative choice, adding depth and tension while constantly making you question what really happened. Everyone feels like a suspect, and family loyalty can only stretch so far when power, greed and long-buried secrets are involved.
The twists genuinely caught me off guard. More than once I thought I had a handle on where this was heading — and each time, I was wrong. It’s one of those books that keeps you guessing whodunnit right up until the end, and the final outcome completely floored me.
This is the second Ali Lowe book I’ve read recently, and it’s easily my favourite of the two. The writing is sharp, the pacing is spot on, and the structure works beautifully to build tension. Tense, twisty, and incredibly well done — an absolute thrill to read.
Told through multiple POVs and layered with transcripts from the podcast The Deadliest Cruise of All Time, this story completely pulled me in. The podcast elements were such a clever narrative choice, adding depth and tension while constantly making you question what really happened. Everyone feels like a suspect, and family loyalty can only stretch so far when power, greed and long-buried secrets are involved.
The twists genuinely caught me off guard. More than once I thought I had a handle on where this was heading — and each time, I was wrong. It’s one of those books that keeps you guessing whodunnit right up until the end, and the final outcome completely floored me.
This is the second Ali Lowe book I’ve read recently, and it’s easily my favourite of the two. The writing is sharp, the pacing is spot on, and the structure works beautifully to build tension. Tense, twisty, and incredibly well done — an absolute thrill to read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Nine days . Six family members. Two deaths.
When one of your favourite authors publishes a new book.. you just drop everything and open the kindle. And you just know you'll have to cancel all plans and just devour it.
The Fairchild family are one of those families you wouldn't like to meet. They are on board the Titan Pacifica to celebrate Irving's 70th birthday. The Titan Pacifica is a luxury cruise liner with a deck specially made for the privileged.
Family loyalty can only go so far.. especially when Irving has some bombshells planned. Everyone is a suspect.
I had to pick my jaw off the ground right before getting my daughter out of bed and I just couldn't wait to get back to my Kindle. I did not see that shock twist coming. And Ali, you knocked this book out of the ball park.
I absolutely loved the transcripts from the podcast - The Deadliest Cruise of All Time. It flowed perfectly throughout the book. This is one book I recommend going in to blind because it was perfection.
Thank you Hachette Australia and Netgalley for gifting me a copy of the book for my honest book review.
When one of your favourite authors publishes a new book.. you just drop everything and open the kindle. And you just know you'll have to cancel all plans and just devour it.
The Fairchild family are one of those families you wouldn't like to meet. They are on board the Titan Pacifica to celebrate Irving's 70th birthday. The Titan Pacifica is a luxury cruise liner with a deck specially made for the privileged.
Family loyalty can only go so far.. especially when Irving has some bombshells planned. Everyone is a suspect.
I had to pick my jaw off the ground right before getting my daughter out of bed and I just couldn't wait to get back to my Kindle. I did not see that shock twist coming. And Ali, you knocked this book out of the ball park.
I absolutely loved the transcripts from the podcast - The Deadliest Cruise of All Time. It flowed perfectly throughout the book. This is one book I recommend going in to blind because it was perfection.
Thank you Hachette Australia and Netgalley for gifting me a copy of the book for my honest book review.
February 8, 2026
The Fairchilds look like the ultimate success story as they board a luxury cruise liner in Sydney Harbour — billionaires, beautiful, and impossibly polished. But once the ship leaves port, the cracks begin to show. Secrets simmer, loyalties fracture, and a long-planned announcement threatens to upend everything. Not everyone on board will make it home.
The Second Wife is smart, glossy, and deliciously twisty. Just when you think you’ve worked out what’s going on — and more importantly, who is responsible — Ali Lowe quietly shifts the ground beneath your feet. It’s one of those books that keeps you guessing without ever feeling gimmicky. Despite the glamorous setting, I felt the claustrophobia of being trapped at sea with no escape routes and far too much history between the passengers. If you enjoy the slick, psychological twists of Sally Hepworth’s novels, this will absolutely be your kind of read.
This is only my second Ali Lowe book, but it certainly won’t be my last.
The Second Wife is smart, glossy, and deliciously twisty. Just when you think you’ve worked out what’s going on — and more importantly, who is responsible — Ali Lowe quietly shifts the ground beneath your feet. It’s one of those books that keeps you guessing without ever feeling gimmicky. Despite the glamorous setting, I felt the claustrophobia of being trapped at sea with no escape routes and far too much history between the passengers. If you enjoy the slick, psychological twists of Sally Hepworth’s novels, this will absolutely be your kind of read.
This is only my second Ali Lowe book, but it certainly won’t be my last.
February 13, 2026
⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This has just topped the list as my favourite book I’ve read so far this year!
As a first-time reader of Ali Lowe, I couldn’t have come away with a better impression of her writing. From the first few pages I was hooked. If you’re a fan of Ruth Ware or Below Deck you’ll love this.
Set on a cruise-liner for the elite, it follows the POVs of three different people on-board; Molly (a cruise concierge) and Celia and Gen (both members of the billionaire Fairchild family). As family members begin to die, long-buried secrets start to surface.
One of my favourite things about the book is that it has multiple POVs - that’s always a win for me. I really liked the two extremes - hearing from the perspective of the wealthy & the “everyday” person. Having the book split into different “Days” made it easy to follow as well. I found this particularly useful when I wanted to re-read specific events, with the perspective of new information.
The inclusion of the transcript from a crime podcast sprinkled throughout was a nice touch and felt very current.
I enjoyed the use of naming specific brands. It helped to paint the picture of luxury as it was names I recognised. Similarly, I appreciated the inclusion of pop culture references; e.g. when Molly was listening to ‘Harry’s House’ album as she was cleaning, as it made it feel current. I also liked the use of vessel emergency terms (e.g “Purell, Purell, Purell” and “Operation Rising Star”. The inclusion of official terms made the story feel more immersive and it helped build tension. It helped me learn something new which I appreciated.
I think the author made some great use of language. My favourite line was: “Celia’s resolve, stronger than steel an hour ago, is a knob of butter in a sizzling hot pan.” It felt like a more interesting way of saying ‘she was won over’ and it made me smile.
I kept thinking I knew where the book was going - turns out I didn’t! Whenever I thought I had a grasp on the direction of the story there was another twist, which always kept me guessing and on the edge of my seat.
When what looked like the “big reveal” happened, I was initially a bit disappointed because it seemed too obvious, so I was excited to discover there was still another twist to come. This redeemed the initial conclusion and made for a great ending.
Overall, The Second Wife was a brilliant read. It was claustrophobic and kept me wanting more. I can’t wait to read more of Ali Lowe’s books in the future!
Massive thank you to NetGalley & the publisher Hodder & Stoughton for the advance copy. :)
This has just topped the list as my favourite book I’ve read so far this year!
As a first-time reader of Ali Lowe, I couldn’t have come away with a better impression of her writing. From the first few pages I was hooked. If you’re a fan of Ruth Ware or Below Deck you’ll love this.
Set on a cruise-liner for the elite, it follows the POVs of three different people on-board; Molly (a cruise concierge) and Celia and Gen (both members of the billionaire Fairchild family). As family members begin to die, long-buried secrets start to surface.
One of my favourite things about the book is that it has multiple POVs - that’s always a win for me. I really liked the two extremes - hearing from the perspective of the wealthy & the “everyday” person. Having the book split into different “Days” made it easy to follow as well. I found this particularly useful when I wanted to re-read specific events, with the perspective of new information.
The inclusion of the transcript from a crime podcast sprinkled throughout was a nice touch and felt very current.
I enjoyed the use of naming specific brands. It helped to paint the picture of luxury as it was names I recognised. Similarly, I appreciated the inclusion of pop culture references; e.g. when Molly was listening to ‘Harry’s House’ album as she was cleaning, as it made it feel current. I also liked the use of vessel emergency terms (e.g “Purell, Purell, Purell” and “Operation Rising Star”. The inclusion of official terms made the story feel more immersive and it helped build tension. It helped me learn something new which I appreciated.
I think the author made some great use of language. My favourite line was: “Celia’s resolve, stronger than steel an hour ago, is a knob of butter in a sizzling hot pan.” It felt like a more interesting way of saying ‘she was won over’ and it made me smile.
I kept thinking I knew where the book was going - turns out I didn’t! Whenever I thought I had a grasp on the direction of the story there was another twist, which always kept me guessing and on the edge of my seat.
When what looked like the “big reveal” happened, I was initially a bit disappointed because it seemed too obvious, so I was excited to discover there was still another twist to come. This redeemed the initial conclusion and made for a great ending.
Overall, The Second Wife was a brilliant read. It was claustrophobic and kept me wanting more. I can’t wait to read more of Ali Lowe’s books in the future!
Massive thank you to NetGalley & the publisher Hodder & Stoughton for the advance copy. :)
December 21, 2025
A super rich 70-yo with a colicky temperament. A greedy sister. A brother former playboy and ex-addict, with secret illegitime children. A revengeful second wife. A resentful daughter who was never allowed to enjoy the right of having a father. Also, a missing pair of black Loboutin that may be used as a weapon of crime. All those people and circumstances are brought together on a fancy cruise from the shores of Sydney as far as Nouvelle Calédonie. And then, there are the crimes: first the rich Irving, shortly after his daughter. So many people who wants them dead, but who is the culprit though?
The Second Wife by Australian bestseller crime author and journalist Ali Lowe starts slowly, but with a beginning that predicts a lot of suspense. And as a cruise is the perfect ´locked room´-like environment for crime(s), the author is hard at work to prove it.
The grains of doubt regarding the actions of the characters and their truth intentions are spread through the various perspectives shared by the characters themselves, but also grandly introduced in the fragments of a dedicated podcast whose transcripts are based on interviews with the main characters involved.
Nothing though prepared me for the truth about the main architect of the plan, and as I am writing this review I cannot stop from raising my eyebrows in surprise. Because, to be honest, I didn´t expect it.
The throughout description of the cruise organisation and the everyday details, including the social stratifications, are crucial in understanding the plot. Also, the emotional status of the characters is equally relevant for understanding their motivation and further acts. My favorite so far is Celia´s, the ambitious wife of the ex-addict and playboy Ridley, unique in its own way: ´That´s how angry she was - so angry the moon annoyed her´.
The Second Wife is a book to read when you can dedicate few hours in a row to it. I started it thinking that it will be my companion for a week at least, but ended up spending most of my time deeply focused in the investigation. Was really worth it, especially because I equally had the chance to discover a new good Australian writer.
The book will be published next June by Hodder and Stoughton.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Disclaimer: Book offered by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
The Second Wife by Australian bestseller crime author and journalist Ali Lowe starts slowly, but with a beginning that predicts a lot of suspense. And as a cruise is the perfect ´locked room´-like environment for crime(s), the author is hard at work to prove it.
The grains of doubt regarding the actions of the characters and their truth intentions are spread through the various perspectives shared by the characters themselves, but also grandly introduced in the fragments of a dedicated podcast whose transcripts are based on interviews with the main characters involved.
Nothing though prepared me for the truth about the main architect of the plan, and as I am writing this review I cannot stop from raising my eyebrows in surprise. Because, to be honest, I didn´t expect it.
The throughout description of the cruise organisation and the everyday details, including the social stratifications, are crucial in understanding the plot. Also, the emotional status of the characters is equally relevant for understanding their motivation and further acts. My favorite so far is Celia´s, the ambitious wife of the ex-addict and playboy Ridley, unique in its own way: ´That´s how angry she was - so angry the moon annoyed her´.
The Second Wife is a book to read when you can dedicate few hours in a row to it. I started it thinking that it will be my companion for a week at least, but ended up spending most of my time deeply focused in the investigation. Was really worth it, especially because I equally had the chance to discover a new good Australian writer.
The book will be published next June by Hodder and Stoughton.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Disclaimer: Book offered by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
January 18, 2026
A wildly wealthy, deeply dysfunctional family board a luxury cruise ship for eight days, sailing out of Sydney. What’s meant to be a glossy, champagne-soaked celebration quickly turns into something far messier, as secrets, power plays, and long-buried resentments start surfacing at sea.
This book was completely scandalous… and yet, for me, it ultimately fell flat. Despite others loving it. And I can still see why, just not for me.
I stayed interested the whole way through. The premise is juicy, the pacing keeps you turning pages, and the setting really works. I’ve never been on a cruise ship, but Ali Lowe absolutely nailed the atmosphere. I genuinely felt like I was there, trapped on board with these people.
Tonally, it felt like if a season of Severance took place on a cruise ship, with The Other Wife throwing in a quirky podcast element for good measure.
That said, the story became very unrealistic at times. I won’t go into the specific moments because they’d be spoilers, but there were quite a few “what are the chances?” situations that pulled me out of the story.
About halfway through, I got genuinely confused. The twists didn’t feel earned, and instead of tightening the plot, they left me with too many unanswered questions. I found myself rereading sections, not because they were clever, but because they didn’t quite make sense.
One thing I will absolutely give credit for: there is not a single likeable character. And honestly, that takes skill. Creating a whole cast of people you don’t root for, yet still keeping them compelling enough to follow is no small feat.
Was it well written? Yes.
Will some people love it? Absolutely.
Was it for me? Nah.
A glossy, scandal-heavy read with a strong setting and bold ideas, but one that didn’t quite stick the landing for me personally.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was completely scandalous… and yet, for me, it ultimately fell flat. Despite others loving it. And I can still see why, just not for me.
I stayed interested the whole way through. The premise is juicy, the pacing keeps you turning pages, and the setting really works. I’ve never been on a cruise ship, but Ali Lowe absolutely nailed the atmosphere. I genuinely felt like I was there, trapped on board with these people.
Tonally, it felt like if a season of Severance took place on a cruise ship, with The Other Wife throwing in a quirky podcast element for good measure.
That said, the story became very unrealistic at times. I won’t go into the specific moments because they’d be spoilers, but there were quite a few “what are the chances?” situations that pulled me out of the story.
About halfway through, I got genuinely confused. The twists didn’t feel earned, and instead of tightening the plot, they left me with too many unanswered questions. I found myself rereading sections, not because they were clever, but because they didn’t quite make sense.
One thing I will absolutely give credit for: there is not a single likeable character. And honestly, that takes skill. Creating a whole cast of people you don’t root for, yet still keeping them compelling enough to follow is no small feat.
Was it well written? Yes.
Will some people love it? Absolutely.
Was it for me? Nah.
A glossy, scandal-heavy read with a strong setting and bold ideas, but one that didn’t quite stick the landing for me personally.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Second Wife is exactly the kind of deliciously tense, sun‑drenched thriller that begs to be devoured in a single sitting. Ali Lowe takes the classic “rich family with secrets” setup and gives it a fresh, glamorous edge by placing the Fairchild dynasty aboard the Titan Pacifica—a floating palace where champagne flows freely and resentments simmer just beneath the polished veneer.
From the moment the ship pulls away from Sydney Harbour, it’s clear this is no ordinary family holiday. Irving Fairchild, the formidable patriarch, has gathered his adult children for what he claims is a celebratory cruise, but the truth—his long‑awaited succession announcement—hangs over every interaction like a storm cloud. Lowe captures the brittle politeness and unspoken rivalries of the ultra‑wealthy with sharp, observant writing that makes each dinner scene feel like a chess match.
What unfolds is a wonderfully layered mix of shifting alliances, old wounds, and the creeping sense that someone on board is willing to go much further than the rest. The confined setting adds a delicious claustrophobia, and as the tension builds, the question isn’t just who will inherit the empire—but who will make it back to shore at all.
Elegant, pacey, and packed with character‑driven intrigue, The Second Wife is a perfect escape for readers who love their thrillers with a side of luxury and a generous helping of family dysfunction. A highly entertaining read that kept me turning pages long after I meant to stop.
with thanks to Ali Lowe, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
From the moment the ship pulls away from Sydney Harbour, it’s clear this is no ordinary family holiday. Irving Fairchild, the formidable patriarch, has gathered his adult children for what he claims is a celebratory cruise, but the truth—his long‑awaited succession announcement—hangs over every interaction like a storm cloud. Lowe captures the brittle politeness and unspoken rivalries of the ultra‑wealthy with sharp, observant writing that makes each dinner scene feel like a chess match.
What unfolds is a wonderfully layered mix of shifting alliances, old wounds, and the creeping sense that someone on board is willing to go much further than the rest. The confined setting adds a delicious claustrophobia, and as the tension builds, the question isn’t just who will inherit the empire—but who will make it back to shore at all.
Elegant, pacey, and packed with character‑driven intrigue, The Second Wife is a perfect escape for readers who love their thrillers with a side of luxury and a generous helping of family dysfunction. A highly entertaining read that kept me turning pages long after I meant to stop.
with thanks to Ali Lowe, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wow this book was a wild ride !
Basically from start to finish every character is a suspect in this fast paced novel. I sped through THE SECOND WIFE, it was such an easy read.
This is the story of the Fairchild family. Irving Fairchild, a billionaire, is taking his family on a ten day cruise around the South Pacific aboard the luxury cruise liner, the Titan Pacifica. He’s celebrating his seventieth birthday, and he’s about to make a big announcement that won’t please everyone. Some of them might not even still be alive at the end of the cruise !
To be honest, I wasn’t really sure I liked any of the characters in this book, and some of them were downright detestable, but I think that by making the characters a little unlikeable helps to keep the reader on edge and wary , and this worked well within the narrative.
I loved the writing style, it’s slick, fast paced and the settings are so descriptive I felt I was actually there aboard the Titan Pacifica, languishing in her luxury. I also enjoyed the different viewpoints that the author used, and the podcast excerpts added an extra dimension, by way of filling in the gaps.
There are lots of plot twists in this book and some shockers, just when you’ve figured out who the bad guy is- Wham ! No you did not !! The final reveal has a great twist that I did not see coming, followed by a second twist that nails the story shut.
This is an enjoyable, solid, undemanding but satisfying thriller for anyone looking for quick escape. 4 stars
Thank you to Net Galley and Hodder & Stoughton publishers for the advanced copy.
Basically from start to finish every character is a suspect in this fast paced novel. I sped through THE SECOND WIFE, it was such an easy read.
This is the story of the Fairchild family. Irving Fairchild, a billionaire, is taking his family on a ten day cruise around the South Pacific aboard the luxury cruise liner, the Titan Pacifica. He’s celebrating his seventieth birthday, and he’s about to make a big announcement that won’t please everyone. Some of them might not even still be alive at the end of the cruise !
To be honest, I wasn’t really sure I liked any of the characters in this book, and some of them were downright detestable, but I think that by making the characters a little unlikeable helps to keep the reader on edge and wary , and this worked well within the narrative.
I loved the writing style, it’s slick, fast paced and the settings are so descriptive I felt I was actually there aboard the Titan Pacifica, languishing in her luxury. I also enjoyed the different viewpoints that the author used, and the podcast excerpts added an extra dimension, by way of filling in the gaps.
There are lots of plot twists in this book and some shockers, just when you’ve figured out who the bad guy is- Wham ! No you did not !! The final reveal has a great twist that I did not see coming, followed by a second twist that nails the story shut.
This is an enjoyable, solid, undemanding but satisfying thriller for anyone looking for quick escape. 4 stars
Thank you to Net Galley and Hodder & Stoughton publishers for the advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review: The Second Wife by Ali Lowe. A dysfunctional and extremely wealthy family head off on a luxury cruise for 8 days, leaving from Sydney. Irving Fairchild, CEO of their billion dollar family business, is celebrating his 70th on board, but he also thinks it’s a great time to drop a few bombs about his successor as he steps back from the day to day running of the business. I can’t imagine a worse place to try to avoid your family than a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean 🤣 Amidst hurt feelings and complete meltdowns, a tragedy happens and this lovely cruise turns into an absolute nightmare. Ali has the ability to write truly awful characters (are you ok Ali?! 🤣) and sometimes my mouth would drop open at the AUDACITY of these people and the way they speak to each other and “the help”. 🫣 Such a brilliant story, so many twists and turns. It’s one of those books where you think you know what’s going on, but you really don’t, which I love! I read a lot of thrillers and mysteries, they can become fairly formulaic, but I’m pleased to say I really didn’t know “whodunnit”!!
Thankyou Ali for writing such a fantastic book, thoroughly enjoyed this one, there’s nothing like reading about bad things happening to people who truly deserve it (hang on, am I ok?! Haha!)
This book is out in March- don’t worry, I’ll remind you all!
Thankyou to NetGalley, Hachette Australia NZ and Ali Lowe for the advanced copy in exchange for my always honest review.
It’s an easy 5/5 from me!
Thankyou Ali for writing such a fantastic book, thoroughly enjoyed this one, there’s nothing like reading about bad things happening to people who truly deserve it (hang on, am I ok?! Haha!)
This book is out in March- don’t worry, I’ll remind you all!
Thankyou to NetGalley, Hachette Australia NZ and Ali Lowe for the advanced copy in exchange for my always honest review.
It’s an easy 5/5 from me!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A mystery-thriller about a rich (albeit it not so great) family - that takes place entirely on a cruise ship in Australia with mutiple POVs? Sign me up!
The story had a little bit of build up at the start - but once we boarded the ship and the story started to play out, I was hooked.
I love the author's ability to write something ambiguous and then it's not until later that you have to circle back to that part of the book and realise that YOU made an assumption about what you read but it actually was a twist you completely misinterpreted.
There were multiple times where that happened and I had to go back and re-read certain parts because I was like "wait a second???"
At first I thought the ending seemed a bit of a non-event, but then another twist was revealed and that one I absolutely did not see coming.
A satisfying ending with a lot of drama that will keep you on your toes - really enjoyed this book, especially being based in Australia where I can picture where the story is taking place.
Thank you to Netgalley and Hachette AUNZ for the eARC of this book.
The story had a little bit of build up at the start - but once we boarded the ship and the story started to play out, I was hooked.
I love the author's ability to write something ambiguous and then it's not until later that you have to circle back to that part of the book and realise that YOU made an assumption about what you read but it actually was a twist you completely misinterpreted.
There were multiple times where that happened and I had to go back and re-read certain parts because I was like "wait a second???"
At first I thought the ending seemed a bit of a non-event, but then another twist was revealed and that one I absolutely did not see coming.
A satisfying ending with a lot of drama that will keep you on your toes - really enjoyed this book, especially being based in Australia where I can picture where the story is taking place.
Thank you to Netgalley and Hachette AUNZ for the eARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When the Fairchild family patriarch takes key family members on a luxury cruise to celebrate his 70th birthday and discuss his plans for future management of their resources, there is little to give away the competitiveness, insecurity, dislike and jealousy that seethes beneath the surface of the interactions between this privileged few.
But from illegitimate children to untrustworthy staff members, from issues of addiction to obsession, the family dynamics here are influenced by any number of secrets being protected by various individuals.
Whatever the lingering tensions though, nobody expects things to go as far as they do on this supposed holiday. But when it comes to power and money, all bets are off...
This is an entertaining and twisty thriller that has something of a slow burn feel to it in parts. Overall, it's well worth your time.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
But from illegitimate children to untrustworthy staff members, from issues of addiction to obsession, the family dynamics here are influenced by any number of secrets being protected by various individuals.
Whatever the lingering tensions though, nobody expects things to go as far as they do on this supposed holiday. But when it comes to power and money, all bets are off...
This is an entertaining and twisty thriller that has something of a slow burn feel to it in parts. Overall, it's well worth your time.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
January 15, 2026
5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vibe check: Addictive Thrills, Cruise Ship Chaos
full review ⬇️
Ali Lowe has done it again, delivering a razor sharp domestic drama thriller this time set against the glitzy backdrop of a luxury cruise ship.
I’ll admit the setting made me a little nervous at first. I’ve read my fair share of murders on boats and trains and the closed room vibe doesn’t always work for me. But this proved that sometimes bigger really is better.
I thought Ali’s previous novel The Private Island was my favourite (and I’ve read them all!) with its delicious White Lotus energy. But The Second Wife takes that vibe, throws in a dash of Succession, raises the body count and dials up the drama. I loved every second.
The inclusion of podcast transcripts throughout was a brilliant touch cleverly teasing twists and keeping the tension simmering right to the end.
This book is pure page turning goodness. From the indulgent cruise ship opulence to the messy family loyalties, suspicious characters and ever growing suspect list, I could not put it down. Add in bold tension, sharp twists and a setting that feels like chaos waiting to happen, and you’ve got a top tier thriller (Deck Nine if you don’t mind IYKYK)
Huge thanks to Hachette and NetGalley for the sneak peek of this excellent read, out in March.
Vibe check: Addictive Thrills, Cruise Ship Chaos
full review ⬇️
Ali Lowe has done it again, delivering a razor sharp domestic drama thriller this time set against the glitzy backdrop of a luxury cruise ship.
I’ll admit the setting made me a little nervous at first. I’ve read my fair share of murders on boats and trains and the closed room vibe doesn’t always work for me. But this proved that sometimes bigger really is better.
I thought Ali’s previous novel The Private Island was my favourite (and I’ve read them all!) with its delicious White Lotus energy. But The Second Wife takes that vibe, throws in a dash of Succession, raises the body count and dials up the drama. I loved every second.
The inclusion of podcast transcripts throughout was a brilliant touch cleverly teasing twists and keeping the tension simmering right to the end.
This book is pure page turning goodness. From the indulgent cruise ship opulence to the messy family loyalties, suspicious characters and ever growing suspect list, I could not put it down. Add in bold tension, sharp twists and a setting that feels like chaos waiting to happen, and you’ve got a top tier thriller (Deck Nine if you don’t mind IYKYK)
Huge thanks to Hachette and NetGalley for the sneak peek of this excellent read, out in March.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ali Lowe delivers another compelling page-turner. When the Fairchild family embark on a luxury cruise from Sydney to the South Pacific to celebrate CEO Irving Fairchild’s 70th birthday, it quickly becomes clear that the voyage will be far from smooth. As the journey unfolds, two family members meet untimely deaths and long-buried secrets begin to surface.
The narrative is cleverly interwoven with transcripts from a podcast titled The Deadliest Cruise of All Time, which heightens the tension and deepens the mystery surrounding the events on board. Cruise staff are also involved in the unfolding drama, adding further layers of intrigue. Just when you believe you have uncovered the truth, another unexpected twist emerges, ensuring the story remains unpredictable until the very end.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to get my hands on this page turner ahead of time.
The narrative is cleverly interwoven with transcripts from a podcast titled The Deadliest Cruise of All Time, which heightens the tension and deepens the mystery surrounding the events on board. Cruise staff are also involved in the unfolding drama, adding further layers of intrigue. Just when you believe you have uncovered the truth, another unexpected twist emerges, ensuring the story remains unpredictable until the very end.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to get my hands on this page turner ahead of time.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Hatchette Australia and New Zealand for an advanced electronic copy of Ali Lowe’s new book to be released in 2026.
This was an addictive story that I sailed through (pun intended! The Fairchild’s are a wealthy family onboard the Titan Pacifica, a luxury cruise ship destined for nine days in the Pacific.
With their presence comes drama, which is seamlessly woven through the story and exposed in jaw dropping moments and unravelling twists.
I love a location thriller that transports you into the story and this one has all the crucial elements - unlikeable and unreliable characters, multiple points of view, a podcast, mystery and intrigue.
This was an addictive story that I sailed through (pun intended! The Fairchild’s are a wealthy family onboard the Titan Pacifica, a luxury cruise ship destined for nine days in the Pacific.
With their presence comes drama, which is seamlessly woven through the story and exposed in jaw dropping moments and unravelling twists.
I love a location thriller that transports you into the story and this one has all the crucial elements - unlikeable and unreliable characters, multiple points of view, a podcast, mystery and intrigue.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A billionaire and his family board a luxury cruise ship from Sydney, but once it docks they won't all make it off safely. Who will make it? They all have a reason for killing but who is guilty? What connection does a staff member have with the family and what secrets are there to keep?
The Second Wife will have you guessing the killer with a splatter of red herrings making you doubt what you know and who is to blame.
Thank you to Netgalley and Hachette Au for a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The Second Wife will have you guessing the killer with a splatter of red herrings making you doubt what you know and who is to blame.
Thank you to Netgalley and Hachette Au for a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
★★★★☆ 4.25 stars
The drama, the power plays, and the tension around the two deaths were so good. This was an addictive, fast-paced thriller that kept me fully engaged.
I don’t usually reach for this genre, but I genuinely loved this one. The family dynamics were messy in the best way, and at times it honestly felt like I was reading Succession whic is rich, ruthless, and driven by ego and control. Definitely a reminder that stepping outside my usual reads can be worth it.
Thank you to Ali Lowe, NetGalley, and Hachette Australia & New Zealand | Hodder & Stoughton for the ARC.
The drama, the power plays, and the tension around the two deaths were so good. This was an addictive, fast-paced thriller that kept me fully engaged.
I don’t usually reach for this genre, but I genuinely loved this one. The family dynamics were messy in the best way, and at times it honestly felt like I was reading Succession whic is rich, ruthless, and driven by ego and control. Definitely a reminder that stepping outside my usual reads can be worth it.
Thank you to Ali Lowe, NetGalley, and Hachette Australia & New Zealand | Hodder & Stoughton for the ARC.
January 31, 2026
This was a great Summer read. A very rich family on board a luxury cruise ship and everyone has secrets.
Throw in a few murders, a podcast after the event, some great characters along with an established, excellent author and you have the perfect mix for a real page-turner.
The twist towards the end was great- I definitely did not see it coming!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for this advance copy to review. I would highly recommend this book.
Throw in a few murders, a podcast after the event, some great characters along with an established, excellent author and you have the perfect mix for a real page-turner.
The twist towards the end was great- I definitely did not see it coming!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for this advance copy to review. I would highly recommend this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2026
When 6 members of a wealthy family go on a cruise to celebrate Irving Fairchild’s 70th birthday 2 dead bodies were certainly not the birthday surprise they had planned for. Lots of twists and turns, fab read enjoyed the speed of the story and the characters.
Thank you NetGalley for the early release copy
Thank you NetGalley for the early release copy
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another absolute ripper from Ali Lowe.
I was hooked from beginning to end.
Loved the setting of the cruise liner, the outrageously wealthy and the lowly staff members, and the intermittent podcast chapters.
A great twist or two that surprised me, and as always, characters you absolutely love to hate.
Really enjoyed it!
I was hooked from beginning to end.
Loved the setting of the cruise liner, the outrageously wealthy and the lowly staff members, and the intermittent podcast chapters.
A great twist or two that surprised me, and as always, characters you absolutely love to hate.
Really enjoyed it!
February 15, 2026
Incredible book, couldn’t put it down and read almost the whole thing in one marathon session. Just when you think you know what’s happening a new brilliant twist comes along! Everything I loved about Australian mystery novels mixed with a dash of Succession. 5 stars!! Thanks Net Galley!!
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