A Gripping Dance of Deception: My Review of His & Hers
Before diving into His & Hers, I’d heard nothing but glowing praise for Alice Feeney. Admittedly, I felt a twinge of curiosity, wondering if the buzz was warranted. Fast forward to the last page, and I can unequivocally say: it absolutely is! This book is not just a thriller, but a multilayered exploration of relationships and secrets that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
The story unfolds through three perspectives: his, hers, and an enigmatic third voice that could belong to either character—or someone entirely different. Right from the start, this narrative structure is compelling, anchoring the reader in a whirlwind of suspicion and intrigue. The “her” of this narrative is Anna Andrews, a compelling BBC reporter who embodies both vulnerability and tenacity. I found myself rooting for her from the very first chapter, entranced by her raw honesty about her flaws and past decisions.
On the flip side, we have Jack Harper, Anna’s ex-husband and an intrepid DCI in Blackdown. Jack’s perspective adds depth, revealing a man haunted by his past while still holding a flicker of hope for a better tomorrow—with Anna, perhaps? Their unexpected reunion at a crime scene sets a tense and uneasy tone that reverberates throughout the novel. Both characters are beautifully crafted, with their emotional wounds lurking just beneath the surface, making every twist feel personal.
As Jack and Anna navigate a series of homicides, the stakes grow increasingly dire. With each body discovered, the connection to Anna deepens, heightening the tension and curiosity about her potential involvement. I must admit, I loved how the alternating perspectives ratcheted up the suspense. My mind raced, trying to untangle the web of clues. And oh, that mystery voice! At times, I suspected every character introduced, only to be cleverly misled by Feeney. I adore when authors can play with my expectations—and Feeney did just that!
However, I’ll confess there were a few parts that left me momentarily puzzled, particularly one red herring that felt a tad implausible. But these quibbles are subjective, and do little to diminish the intricate plotting and distinct prose that kept me hooked.
What truly resonated with me was Anna’s connection to the victims and the dark secrets of her past that refuse to stay buried. The fragility of trust and the haunting nature of one’s history are themes that weave seamlessly throughout the narrative, making His & Hers not just a thrilling ride, but a meditation on identity and the scars we carry.
As summer reading heats up, I wholeheartedly recommend His & Hers to anyone in search of a taut, fast-paced thriller that combines psychological depth with heart-stopping plot twists. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Alice Feeney or new to her work, this gripping narrative will leave you pondering long after you’ve turned the last page. A special thank you to Flatiron Books for providing me an early copy; this journey was an unforgettable one! So grab your beach towel and your favorite iced drink, because you won’t want to put this one down.