His and Hers

Book Review

His and Hers – A Battle of Truths and Lies

Alice Feeney’s His and Hers is a relentless psychological thriller that draws you in with its dual perspectives and keeps you hooked with its unpredictable twists. The novel follows Anna Andrews, a BBC news presenter whose life seems to be unraveling, and DCI Jack Harper, a man haunted by his past. When a murder in Blackdown ties them both to the scene, the lines between truth and lies blur, leaving readers questioning everything they thought they knew.

Plot Summary: A Web of Deceit

The story begins with Anna, who, after losing her coveted role as a lead TV presenter, is sent back to Blackdown to cover a murder. The victim is someone she once knew, and as she delves deeper into the story, her connection to the case becomes more personal and perilous. Meanwhile, Jack Harper, the detective assigned to the case, finds himself in a precarious position when he realizes he has a connection to the victim as well.

The narrative alternates between Anna’s and Jack’s perspectives, but Feeney doesn’t stop there. She throws in a third, unnamed narrator—the killer. This voice is as chilling as it is enigmatic, forcing readers to question whether Jack or Anna could be hiding darker secrets than they let on.

Character Analysis: A Study in Unreliability

Anna Andrews is a complex character, and Feeney doesn’t shy away from showing her flaws. She’s dealing with the aftermath of her divorce, the trauma of losing a child, and a crippling alcohol dependency. Her narrative is raw, often bitter, but undeniably human. You can feel her desperation, her anger, and her struggle to maintain control as her life spirals.

Jack Harper, on the other hand, is a character shrouded in ambiguity. His relationship with the victim immediately places him under suspicion, and Feeney cleverly keeps the reader guessing about his true motives. Jack’s internal conflicts are well-explored, particularly his struggle between duty and desire, making him a compelling, if not entirely trustworthy, protagonist.

Feeney’s portrayal of these characters, with all their secrets and contradictions, adds layers to the narrative. You find yourself constantly questioning their honesty, and just when you think you’ve figured them out, Feeney pulls the rug out from under you.

Writing Style: Twists and Turns

Feeney’s writing is sharp and unyielding, much like the twists she crafts. She uses short, punchy chapters to build tension, each one ending on a note that practically demands you keep reading. Her use of unreliable narrators is particularly effective, as it forces the reader to constantly reassess their understanding of the plot.

The pacing is relentless, with each revelation leading to more questions. Feeney excels at creating a sense of claustrophobia and unease, particularly through the descriptions of Blackdown and its dark, foreboding woods. The setting itself becomes a character, one that adds to the novel’s overall sense of dread.

However, there are moments where the plot seems to hinge too heavily on coincidences. Some twists feel almost too convenient, and while they shock in the moment, they may leave you questioning their plausibility upon reflection. But then again, isn’t that part of the fun in a thriller? Feeney makes you suspend disbelief just enough to enjoy the ride, even if it means accepting a few narrative liberties.

Emotional Impact: An Unsettling Experience

His and Hers is a book that lingers long after you’ve turned the final page. The psychological tension, coupled with the moral ambiguity of the characters, creates an unsettling reading experience. You find yourself sympathizing with Anna and Jack, even as you doubt their innocence. The final twist is a gut punch, one that recontextualizes everything you’ve read and leaves you with a sense of unease.

Final Thoughts: A Thrilling Ride

Alice Feeney’s His and Hers is a thrilling, albeit sometimes perplexing, journey through the darkest corners of the human psyche. It’s a book that will keep you guessing until the very end and one that plays on the notion that there are always three sides to a story: his, hers, and the truth.

In conclusion, His and Hers is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers who enjoy being kept on their toes. It’s a story that’s as much about the characters as it is about the mystery, and Feeney proves once again that she’s a master at crafting tales that are as twisted as they are entertaining.