He Would Never (Holly Wainwright, Macmillan)
Holly Wainwright’s fifth novel, He Would Never, is pacy, compelling and character-driven, and will hook readers from the startling first sentence. The story follows five families on their annual summer camping trip to Green River beach – a tradition Liss Short, the group’s unwavering organiser, has kept alive for years. Their connection dates back 14 years, when the mothers first met in a parenting group, forming friendships that have evolved in unexpected ways. The novel alternates between multiple third-person perspectives, shifting between 2024 and earlier timelines. Flashbacks explore the group’s beginnings, the development of friendships and relationships, and dramatic events from previous camping trips. In the present day, shocking accusations send ripples of tension through the camp. Adding depth to the narrative is Lyra, one of the group’s 14-year-old children, whose perspective offers a contrasting and insightful look at the experiences and feelings of the teenagers and younger children. The titular ‘He’ is Liss’s husband, Lachy – a narcissist who thrives on self-importance, meddles in everyone’s lives, and hides deep fractures and deceit in his marriage. The novel’s cast of diverse and well-drawn characters brings to life themes of post-natal depression, early motherhood, parenting challenges, children’s growing independence, trust, tolerance and even grooming and coercive control. While the conclusion feels somewhat rushed, Wainwright’s fans will devour this novel and book clubs will love dissecting the characters’ backstories and motivations. In the vein of Liane Moriarty’s contemporary domestic thrillers, this story is primed for a compelling screen adaptation.
Books+Publishing reviewer: Alida Galati is a secondary school librarian, freelance reviewer and writing and reading enthusiast. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.
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Category: Friday Unlocked reviews Reviews
