303 reviews for:

The Wife App

Carolyn Mackler

3.58 AVERAGE


3.5 rounded up. Much more aware of the mental loads we all carry, and how they might be different. There’s definitely a larger conversation on race and class to be had here too and I’m a little uncomfortable with how it was (and wasn’t) addressed.
funny reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

I received this book as an advance reader copy from NetGalley. I thought this was a fun take on the digital age of dating apps and womanhood.
lighthearted reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I wanted to like this more than I did.

Have you finally hit the wall when it comes to "mental load"? You know, those things like to do lists, forms, invitations, social obligations, etc. The never ending list of things to do that quite often fall to women. Well Lauren, Madeline, and Sophie certainly have. As single mothers with ex husbands, they are quite frankly done. After Lauren's divorce is finalized, the three friends go out to celebrate and commiserate with each about the expectations they are constantly trying to meet. Over drinks, they come up with an idea for an app to help people with their own "mental loads". The things that wives usually do for free could be monetized right? Well that whim turns into a reality when they put their words into action, creating "The Wife App". They can only imagine the journey this venture takes them on, not only professionally, but personally as they find themselves, but strengthen their friendships with each other.

Thank you netgalley for this advance copy.
Unfortunately this was not my cup of tea. The characters were very unlikeable and I think the author hates being married herself based on his book. I really wanted to like this book but it was not the lighthearted story I was expecting.

qtpieash3's review

3.0

I enjoyed this one - 3.5 stars. This book follows a group of friends, all divorced, who create an app to help with the mental load most often dealt with by women. Work such as applying to private schools, packing for summer camps, and handling birthday gifts for school parties that is often handled by women can be outsourced for a cost. A fun and refreshing read about women’s work, its worth, friendship, and relationships. Some parts were a bit fantastical, but I was happy to suspend reality for a time to enjoy the ride.
emotional funny medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

I liked the overall concept of this book, but I couldn't connect with the characters and the writing wasn't for me. I do wish the author elaborated a bit more on the mental load that wives take on. I'm not a wife myself, but I can see some of what my friends take on. But I think being more explicit about the mental load could help all readers, especially those who aren't in hetero relationships.

I am also curious about the mental load in non-hetero relationships. Is that reported to be as prevalent? This line of thought is likely ore than what the author can dive into, just practically, but those types of discussions could help this book.