The Couple in the Photo

By: Helen Cooper

Narrated by: Naomi Frederick

A LibraryReads Pick

Be careful who you sleep with...They've already made their bed.

Lucy and her husband, Adam, have been best friends with another couple, Cora and Scott, for years. The four are practically family—they vacation together, co-own a beach cottage, and their children are inseparable. So Lucy is devastated when, while looking at a colleague’s photos of a trip to the Maldives, she spots a picture of Scott, apparently on vacation with another woman.

Then she learns that the woman in the photo has gone missing. Lucy can’t help but fear that Scott was involved. But searching for answers might uncover secrets about Scott, Cora, and even her own husband that could destroy the picture-perfect lives they have built together. Or maybe she was never part of the picture at all. Is it possible everyone knows more than they are letting on? If so, what are the consequences of exposing the truth?

©2023 Helen Cooper (P)2023 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

"So many secrets . . . Another twisty, psychological thriller from author Helen Cooper. Fans of these types of novels will be happy with this one." —Red Carpet Crash

"A sharply constructed puzzle of a mystery, full of surprising twists and turns about marriage, friendship, motherhood and how the truth really can be in the eye of the beholder." —Kimberly McCreight, author of Reconstructing Amelia

"The Couple in the Photo had me hooked from the first page and I positively devoured this masterfully constructed tale of lies and deceit. An absolute must-read for all thriller fans." ― Sarah Bonner, author of Her Perfect Twin

Predictable.

It was pretty predictable. A few surprises but not the most climatic ending. Pretty decent overall

Great storytelling

I truly love this story and the way it is written. The listened to it twice, back to back

Captivating Beginning to End

I liked this one. The hook was provided at the start and the intrigue never wavered. I liked how character development was so well done but seamlessly continued to build as the story grows showing many hidden sides. I also appreciated when the truth(s) were exposed it was done in such a realistic way. Instead of one turning loco and wheeling a gun at the people he/she loved the most, it’s 2 couples who are also 4 friends finally telling their truths. What makes it so genuine is how they hash it out, arguing, yelling, swearing at each other, it’s perfect! Lots of great reveals, twists and wait what at the end!!!

Narration was great giving each of the 4 main characters their own voice as well as the children. Best concussed voice I’ve heard!!

Wow! I’ve never read a book quite like this.

At first I didn’t think I would like it because I didn’t trust the main character who was relating the story. The plot became more compelling as it continued. I had no idea how it would end. This was the kind of book that I looked forward to each day. You will, too.

A very easy and entertaining read.

Really enjoyed the book. It makes one wonder how can people manage to get their lives so twisted and messed up under the pretext of protecting others. Highly recommend.

Not bad, not great

I gave it a 4 rounded up from a 3 1/2. I got a little bored with all the back story. Too long, too much. The story and the whys were interesting and the last quarter of the book was better because things were actually happening.

Couldn’t Stop Listening

I listened to this book in three days. I literally couldn’t stop listening. I love a good mystery with twists and turns and this has it all! The voice reading is very pleasant and easy to listen to.

Love This Story!!!

Mystery, suspense, great character development… This story twisted and turned in all the right ways!! I will certainly be looking to read more from this author

Better than I thought it would be

I had to speed up the narration, but once I did that the narration wasn’t bad.

The book was an interesting mix of predictable and not. Some answers I figured out right away, while others came into focus towards the end.

I’ve Listened to this book TWICE..!!

This book is so very good that I have listened to it TWICE..!!..
I have over 3,000 Audible books… and yet this pulled me back a second time..
An absolutely great listen.