Character Interview: Kaira Rouda interviews Jody Asher of The Widow

December 1, 2022 | By Women Writers Women Books | Reply More

About THE WIDOW

A husband with secrets. A wife with no limits. A riveting novel of marriage, privilege, and lies by Kaira Rouda, the USA Today bestselling author of The Next Wife.

Jody Asher had a plan. Her charismatic husband, Martin, would be a political icon. She, the charming wife, would fuel his success. For fifteen congressional terms, they were the golden couple on the Hill. Life was good. Until he wasn’t.

Martin’s secret affair with a young staffer doesn’t bother Jody personally. But professionally? It’s a legacy killer. Soon a reporter gets word of this scandal in the making, and Martin’s indiscretions threaten to ruin everything Jody has accomplished.

When Martin suddenly dies, it’s a chance to change the narrative—but the reporter won’t let go of his lead. As the balance of power shifts in the Asher house and on the Hill, it’s time for Jody to take control. And there’s nothing the ruthless widow won’t do to secure the future she’s entitled to. Even if she has a secret of her own.

KAIRA ROUDA INTERVIEWS JODY ASHER

Kaira Rouda: Jody, thanks so much for taking the time to speak to me today. I know how busy you are.

Jody Asher, wife of the Honorable Martin Asher of Ohio: Yes, I’m always busy but especially today. My daughter, my only child, is getting married this weekend.

KR: Oh, I know. It’s the talk of the town.

JA: Well, yes, I had hoped so, but it seems there are other things getting attention. Things that shouldn’t be.

KR: Really? Like what?

JA: More like who. But I can’t speak about it. You know, a spouse is best seen and not heard in Washington. That’s how we’ve been able to survive, and thrive, for thirty years in this town. Loose lips sink ships, and careers. Ha!

KR: Ok, let’s shift the focus a bit. Tonight is the Congressional Dialogues Dinner. Will you be there?

JA: Oh, yes, I wouldn’t miss them. They are fabulous. Bipartisan and completely educational. I always learn so much, and get to see items from the National Archives, too. It’s held in the Library of Congress. One of my favorite buildings. I lead constituents on tours there all the time. There and the White House.

KR: Is that one of the duties of a congressional spouse?

JA: I prefer to think of it as an honor, not a duty.

KR: Of course. So it’s your daughter, Charlotte isn’t it, getting married at the Congressional Club? I know you’re a member.

JA: Oh, no unfortunately, our headcount is too large for the club’s space, but I do enjoy my membership there.

KR: You enjoy the First Lady’s Luncheon, too, I bet.

JA: Yes, and I’m a member of the committee and should be joining the board soon. It’s so exciting.

KR: Well, it’s certainly nice to talk to a spouse who enjoys her role, standing by her man, as he makes important laws and bills and the like.

JA: Let’s be clear: we don’t stand by our man. We are powerful, the spouses of DC. You should read THE WIDOW, you’ll learn a thing or two about who has the real power inside the beltway. Maybe you’ll be surprised.

Buy THE WIDOW HERE

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Kaira Rouda is a multiple award–winning, Amazon Charts and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary fiction that explores what goes on beneath the surface of seemingly perfect lives. Her novels of domestic suspense include Somebody’s Home, The Next Wife, The Favorite Daughter, Best Day Ever, and All the Difference. To date, Kaira’s work has been translated into more than ten languages. She lives in Southern California with her family. For more information, visit www.kairarouda.com.