In Astrid Dahl’s debut novel “The Really Dead Wives of New Jersey,” reality television’s manufactured drama collides with genuine tragedy in the fictional world of Garden State Goddesses. Set in the affluent suburb of Shady Pond, New Jersey, the novel follows showrunner Eden Bennett as she navigates both personal and professional complications after casting her estranged cousin Hope in her hit reality show.
The story opens with promise, introducing us to a cast of characters that feel simultaneously familiar to reality TV fans while offering fresh twists on familiar tropes. Eden, our morally ambiguous protagonist, manipulates both cast and audience with practiced expertise until deaths begin occurring that she can’t control.
Writing Style & Narrative Structure
Dahl demonstrates a keen ear for the particular cadence of reality television dialogue, effectively capturing both the performed and genuine moments between her characters. The novel is structured in multiple viewpoints, allowing readers intimate access to various characters’ perspectives while maintaining suspense about key plot points.
However, this multiple-perspective approach occasionally leads to pacing issues, particularly in the middle sections where certain revelations feel either rushed or delayed for dramatic effect rather than organic storytelling.
Strengths
- Strong grasp of reality TV dynamics and behind-the-scenes mechanics
- Well-developed LGBTQ+ representation through multiple characters
- Effective use of tension in both personal and professional storylines
- Complex family dynamics that feel authentic despite dramatic circumstances
Character Development
The novel’s strongest element is its character work, particularly with:
- Eden Bennett: A fascinatingly flawed protagonist whose professional ambition conflicts with personal loyalties
- Hope: The mysterious newcomer whose secrets drive much of the plot
- Renee: A grounding presence whose perspective offers necessary contrast to the more dramatic characters
- Carmela: A deliciously complex antagonist whose motivations extend beyond simple villainy
Areas for Improvement
- Some plot twists rely too heavily on coincidence
- Secondary characters occasionally feel underdeveloped
- The pacing becomes uneven in the latter half
- Certain reality TV elements feel exaggerated beyond believability
Thematic Elements
The novel explores several compelling themes:
- The cost of ambition
- Family loyalty versus personal truth
- The performance of identity
- The thin line between reality and fiction in modern media
Genre-Blending Success and Struggles
While Dahl should be commended for attempting to merge reality TV drama with traditional murder mystery elements, this fusion isn’t always successful. Some readers may find the transition from lighter reality show moments to darker criminal elements jarring.
Impact and Relevance
The book’s exploration of reality television’s impact on personal relationships feels particularly timely, though some of its observations about social media and celebrity culture could be more nuanced.
Final Verdict
“The Really Dead Wives of New Jersey” is an ambitious debut that succeeds more often than it falters. While some elements don’t quite cohere, Dahl’s strong character work and understanding of reality TV dynamics make for an engaging read, even when the plot occasionally strains credibility.
Recommendation
This book is recommended for:
- Fans of reality TV, particularly Real Housewives franchises
- Readers who enjoy mystery with strong character development
- Those interested in LGBTQ+ themes in contemporary fiction
- Anyone who appreciates behind-the-scenes entertainment industry stories
Similar Books
For readers who enjoyed this novel, consider:
- “Such a Fun Age” by Kiley Reid
- “Big Summer” by Jennifer Weiner
- “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Conclusion
Despite its flaws, “The Really Dead Wives of New Jersey” marks Astrid Dahl as an author to watch. Her ability to blend contemporary social commentary with compelling mystery suggests potential for growth in future works. While the novel might not satisfy pure mystery fans or reality TV devotees completely, it creates its own unique space between these genres, offering something fresh if not fully formed.