About Books: ‘The Next Mrs. Parrish’ is a fast and furious domestic thriller

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Liv Constantine is a pen name for sisters and bestselling authors Lynne and Valerie Constantine. This book is a sequel to their very popular book, “The Last Mrs. Parrish.”

Although you can read this as a standalone book, I strongly suggest that you read the first one, so you have some background about the characters. This story continues with returning characters, Daphne, Amber and Jackson joined by a new character, Daisy Ann. Amber and Jackson are as despicable as ever with no redeeming characteristics. The story consists of betrayal, backstabbing, gaslighting and manipulation. It is a thrilling cat and mouse game of power and revenge.

Amber always sets her sights on living a wealthy, privileged life and is willing to do anything to achieve that goal. She had an affair with Jackson while he was married to Daphne and became pregnant with his baby. Daphne happily divorced Jackson and Amber became his manipulative second wife who quickly learned firsthand about his abusive, controlling behavior. When Jackson goes to prison for tax evasion, Amber devises a plan to skip town with millions before Jackson returns home. The only problem is Jackson is released early and Amber has to rethink her plan.

Daphne and her two daughters, Tallulah and Bella escape to California but the girls don’t know the truth about their father’s bad behavior. Tallulah begs her mother to let them visit him, and finally she reluctantly agrees to take them back East for the summer. Little does Daphne know that Jackson and Amber have agreed to a plan where they both get what they want. He wants Daphne and his daughters back living with him and Amber wants her independence as a wealthy admired woman. Can either of them be trusted?

Meanwhile, a new character, Daisy Ann lives in Dallas and runs her own high end jewelry business. She is convinced that her father was killed by his young wife in an “accidental” hunting accident. His young wife just happened to be Amber; Who knew?! When Daisy runs into Amber at a New York jewelry show she becomes obsessed with getting justice for her father and revenge against Amber. To retaliate, Amber attempts to get her hands on Daisy’s business. The twists and turns keep readers guessing about who will end up on top as they all scheme to one-up each other.

If you liked the first Mrs. Parrish book, you would like this one. If you didn’t read the first one, I suggest that you read them both. They are two of my favorite books by this author. The plot in this domestic thriller is fast and furious, and the characters engage the attention of readers. It tells the story of how people with excessive means use their power in corrupt ways to control others. It’s an entertaining, exciting read with a couple characters you love to hate. Make it a “need to read” this summer.

Jacquie O’Neil and her daughter, Times Leader Media Group Publisher Kerry Miscavage, contribute to this column.