Book Review: The Housekeeper by Joy Fielding

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Jodi Bishop knows success. She's the breadwinner, a top-notch real estate agent. Her husband, Harrison... not so much. Once he had big dreams. But now he's a middling writer who resents his wife's success. Jodi's father, Vic, in his late seventies and retired, is a tenaciously controlling man. Her mother, Audrey, is herself no shrinking violet, but things have changed since Audrey developed Parkinson's ten years ago and Vic retired to devote himself to her care. While still reasonably spry and rakishly handsome, Vic has been worn down by his wife's deterioriating condition. Exhausted from trying to balance her career, her parents' needs and her own family, Jodi starts interviewing housekeepers to help care for Audrey and Vic, finally settling on Elyse Woodley, an energetic and attractive wido in her early sixties who seems perfect for the job. And though Vic is initially resistant, he soon warms to Elyse's sunny personality and engaging ways. Jodi is pleased to have an ally, someone she can talk to and occasionally even confide in. Until.. Elyse shuts Jodi out and Audrey's condition worsens - rapidly. Who is this woman suddenly wearing Audrey's jewelry? What is she after? And how far will she go to get it? ~~~~ I actually finished a book before midnight, though I would have stayed up all night to finish The Housekeeper. This is an awesome thriller that left me disturbed at times, and shaking by the end. My first thought was, I'm too rattled to write a review. This is your typical story of gaslighting. When everyone makes one person think they are wrong about everything. It's heartbreaking and earth shattering. It was easy to read with such short chapters, but that made it easier for me to keep reading instead of putting the book down. The Housekeeper is sweet, and kind and willing to do anything just to win Jodi's good graces. Then stuff happens. Jodi's mother's belongings turn up in the housekeeper's possession. Is she stealing or his her father a willing participant? In the meantime there is trouble in her marriage. Is Harrison cheating or isn't he? Of course it's her imagination, right? Another draw for me was not only did this take place in Toronto, my hometown, it took place in the very neighbourhood I grew up in. I couldn't help but bring up a map of the area. (The house number does not exist). Gripping, riveting, masterful, intrigue and downright scary. I have no more words. You must read this book!