Exploring the Twists of The Soulmate by Sally Hepworth
When I first stumbled upon The Soulmate by Sally Hepworth, I was drawn in by the promise of a gripping domestic thriller. Hepworth has an impressive ability to weave intricate narratives, and I was eager to see how she would handle the themes of love, secrets, and mental health. However, as I delved into the story, my excitement transformed into disappointment, leading me on a rather rocky journey through the lives of Gabe and Pippa.
At its core, The Soulmate centers on Gabe’s self-appointed role as a local hero for rescuing those contemplating suicide off the cliffs where he lives with Pippa and their two young daughters. Yet, tragedy strikes when Gabe fails to save a woman, which uncovers a web of secrets as Pippa discovers Gabe may know more than he’s letting on. The multiple perspectives—Pippa’s present and past along with Amanda’s (the victim’s)—could have created a rich narrative tapestry, but instead, they often felt like an entangled thread, never quite aligning.
Let’s start with the characters. Pippa’s blind devotion to Gabe is hard to digest, especially when her family’s hesitations about him are glaringly evident. Her portrayal is frustrating; she appears almost willfully ignorant, which leaves the reader questioning the strength of her convictions. In contrast, Amanda’s perspective is more compelling, allowing for deeper emotional insights that Pippa lacks. I found myself more invested in Amanda and her husband Max than in Pippa and Gabe, which is not a strong endorsement for a domestic drama.
The pacing of the story is definitely brisk, but unfortunately, it feels like a sprint toward a finish line that doesn’t hold up. The plot is riddled with coincidences that often defy logic—from purchasing a home on a cliff known for suicides to the all-too-convenient revelations that happen an eye-blink too late. If only characters chose honesty over secrecy, the book could have unfolded in a matter of chapters rather than dragging on with needless suspense.
Some moments do shine, particularly with the portrayal of Pippa and Gabe’s daughters, Freya and Asha. Their innocence is a bright spot amidst the convoluted adult drama. And let’s not overlook the epilogue—it provided a dose of clarity and resolution that was otherwise lacking throughout the narrative.
The audiobook, narrated by Barrie Kreinik and Jessica Douglas-Henry, didn’t fully capture the emotional weight of the characters’ experiences. While one of the narrators gave Pippa a depth that resonated somewhat, they both fell short during more intense moments. This left me craving a more vibrant performance to match the story’s emotional stakes.
In the grand scheme of things, The Soulmate might appeal to dedicated fans of Hepworth or those willing to overlook its faults for the sake of a quick read. For readers like me, who cherish logical storytelling and character development, this might feel less like a thrilling ride and more like a puzzling detour.
Ultimately, my encounter with this book shaped my expectations for future reads. Although it didn’t resonate with me, it serves as a reminder of the diverse reading tastes within our community. As I roll up my sleeves to dive back into my reading list, I hope for stories that weave their secrets with a bit more finesse.
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If you’re curious about domestic suspense or a die-hard follower of Sally Hepworth’s work, you may find some enjoyment here. For everyone else, maybe keep your compass pointed toward other literary adventures!
