By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

Belle Burden's memoir, "Strangers," is a searing exploration of the abrupt dissolution of a two-decade marriage, set against the backdrop of the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. With unflinching honesty, Burden delves into the shock and devastation that ensued when her husband, without warning, announced his departure, leaving her to grapple with the remnants of a life they had meticulously built together.

The narrative is meticulously structured, divided into five acts that mirror the stages of her emotional journey. Burden's prose is both precise and evocative, reflecting her legal background and her acute awareness of the societal expectations placed upon her. She candidly examines her role as the compliant partner, nicknamed "Belle the Good," and the gradual transformation she undergoes as she confronts the betrayal and seeks to reclaim her voice.

Critics have lauded the memoir for its raw emotional depth and narrative prowess. The New York Times describes it as reading "like a love story and a horror story and, in one nail-biting section, like a financial thriller." ([penguinrandomhouse.com](https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/760850/strangers-by-belle-burden/?utm_source=openai)) Publishers Weekly commends Burden's "unsparing emotional clarity" and notes that the memoir is "a gut punch." ([publishersweekly.com](https://www.publishersweekly.com/9780593733318?utm_source=openai))

However, some readers may find the portrayal of Burden's privileged lifestyle—a world of multimillion-dollar homes, private clubs, and elite social circles—somewhat alienating. While she acknowledges her privilege, the focus on the optics of her social circle can feel claustrophobic and, at times, trivial. ([probinism.com](https://www.probinism.com/strangers-memoir-belle-burden-review/?utm_source=openai)) Additionally, the memoir leaves the reader, like Burden herself, without a satisfying answer as to why her husband abruptly ended their marriage, which may leave some feeling a slight void.

Despite these critiques, "Strangers" stands as a compelling testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unexpected upheaval. Burden's journey from devastation to self-discovery is both inspiring and thought-provoking, making this memoir a valuable read for those seeking to understand the complexities of intimate relationships and personal growth.

Recommendation: Highly recommended!

written on: 1/22/2026