The Bitter Truth

Williams (The Other Mistress) delivers a psychological thriller centered on Jolene and Dominic Baker, a power couple embroiled in a high-profile political campaign. Dominic, seeking reelection as the governor of North Carolina, is at odds with Jolene, his wife of 11 years. Jolene is finding it increasingly difficult to reconcile the Dominic of the present with the Dominic she once knew. Slowly, she realizes that her husband is hiding something. Her suspicion boils over when she learns of his reconnection with Brynn, his high school sweetheart, about whom she knew nothing. Themes of domestic violence, fear, power, and deceit pervade the text. The story is quick-paced and intriguing but frequently jumps from present to past, which may leave some listeners confused. Narrators Roderick Ross and Sable Lyn alternate, with Ross giving voice to Dominic and Lyn speaking for Jolene. Both narrators are skilled, allowing listeners to connect with the characters’ inner thoughts as events spiral out of control.