Shey Stahl's Bad Husband is a compelling exploration of love, marriage, and the complexities that come with balancing personal ambition and intimate relationships. As a standalone novel, it offers a fresh perspective on the often-treaded path of marital discord, infused with humor, sincerity, and a touch of vulnerability that makes it a standout in the romance genre.

The protagonist, Ridley Cooper, is a man on a mission. From the outset, he is portrayed as a driven individual, someone who has dedicated his life to building a successful business from the ground up. His confidence in his trade is palpable, and his self-assuredness is both his greatest strength and his most glaring flaw. Ridley's journey is not just about reclaiming his wife's love but also about introspection and personal growth. This dual narrative of external pursuit and internal reflection is what makes Bad Husband particularly engaging.

Ridley's wife, Madison, is a character who, despite being central to the plot, is initially shrouded in mystery. Her decision to file for divorce is the catalyst for the story, and as the narrative unfolds, readers are given glimpses into her world and the reasons behind her drastic decision. Madison is not just a foil to Ridley's ambitions; she is a fully realized character with her own dreams, frustrations, and desires. Stahl does an excellent job of fleshing out her character, making her more than just the "wife" in the story but a pivotal force that drives Ridley's transformation.

The central theme of Bad Husband revolves around the idea of second chances and the effort required to mend what is broken. Ridley's determination to win back Madison's love within the 60-day window set by Arizona's divorce laws is both a ticking clock and a narrative device that adds urgency to the story. This time constraint forces Ridley to confront his shortcomings and reevaluate his priorities. The novel delves into the intricacies of marriage, highlighting how easy it is to take a partner for granted when one's focus is skewed towards personal success.

Stahl's writing is both witty and poignant, capturing the essence of a man who is both endearing and exasperating. Ridley's internal monologue is peppered with humor, making his journey relatable and engaging. His self-deprecating humor and candid admissions of his flaws make him a character that readers can root for, despite his initial shortcomings. The narrative is well-paced, with a balance of light-hearted moments and deeper, more introspective passages that explore the emotional landscape of a marriage on the brink.

One of the strengths of Bad Husband is its realistic portrayal of marital issues. Stahl does not shy away from depicting the challenges that come with long-term relationships, such as communication breakdowns, unmet expectations, and the struggle to maintain intimacy amidst life's demands. The novel does not offer a simplistic resolution but rather emphasizes the importance of effort, understanding, and compromise in rebuilding a fractured relationship.

In comparison to other romance novels that tackle similar themes, such as Nicholas Sparks' The Wedding or Taylor Jenkins Reid's After I Do, Bad Husband stands out for its humor and the authenticity of its characters. While Sparks often leans towards the sentimental and Reid explores the emotional depths of separation, Stahl finds a balance between humor and heart, making her narrative both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Overall, Bad Husband is a testament to Shey Stahl's ability to craft a story that is both entertaining and meaningful. It is a novel that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to balance personal ambitions with the demands of a relationship. Ridley Cooper's journey is one of redemption and growth, and his story serves as a reminder that love, while not always easy, is worth fighting for.

For readers looking for a romance novel that offers more than just a love story, Bad Husband is a must-read. It is a book that will make you laugh, reflect, and perhaps even reevaluate your own relationships. Shey Stahl has delivered a narrative that is both engaging and insightful, making Bad Husband a worthy addition to any romance lover's bookshelf.