The Ex by Alafair Burke

Synopsis :

Twenty years ago she ruined his life. Now she has the chance to save it.

Widower Jack Harris has resisted the dating scene ever since the shooting of his wife Molly by a fifteen-year-old boy three years ago. An early morning run along the Hudson River changes that when he spots a woman in last night’s party dress, barefoot, enjoying a champagne picnic alone, reading his favorite novel. Everything about her reminds him of what he used to have with Molly. Eager to help Jack find love again, his best friend posts a message on a popular website after he mentions the encounter. Days later, that same beautiful stranger responds and invites Jack to meet her in person at the waterfront. That’s when Jack’s world falls apart.

Olivia Randall is one of New York City’s best criminal defense lawyers. When she hears that her former fiancé, Jack Harris, has been arrested for a triple homicide—and that one of the victims was connected to his wife’s murder—there is no doubt in her mind as to his innocence. The only question is who would go to such great lengths to frame him—and why?

For Olivia, representing Jack is a way to make up for past regrets, to absolve herself of guilt from a tragic decision, a secret she has held for twenty years. But as the evidence against him mounts, she is forced to confront her doubts. The man she knew could not have done this. But what if she never really knew him? 


This is what I say :

I remember reading a title by Alafair Burke many many years ago but I have forgotten what I read.  A visit to my post here tells me that I had liked what I read.  That is why I am giving The Ex a chance here.


Fortunately, The Ex delivers.  It has a rather interesting storyline and honestly, the story could go many places and I certainly did not see this ending the way it was.  The author is also good in keeping the plot rather simple but yet once the final clue is revealed, it's rather brilliant.

There's many food for thoughts as well.  For example, does haboring the desire to murder someone whom you love for the wrongs they did to you will result in you carrying out the act?  Although this was discussed between the main character and a doctor, the underlying current of this thoughts being turned into another totally new story is possible.

I am glad I read The Ex.  Don't be surprised if I read another of her title real soon.