Review: An Anonymous Girl

An Anonymous Girl by Greer Hendricks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An Anonymous Girl by co-authors Hendricks and Pekkanen is at its core domestic noir—a suspenseful read with a plot that is unique, twisted and edgy. It is the strength of that plot that carries it past the weakness of a bevy of unlikable characters.

Jessica is a twenty-something makeup artist, traveling from client to client and eking out a living. Motivated by the lure of a $500 stipend, she fabricates a story and wheedles her way into a study being conducted by a local university professor. Oh the irony to discover that the study is one that explores ethics and morality! As a participant, Jessica is encouraged to share life experiences that reflect her own standards and values. In the process, she is drawn to the professor asking the questions—and the professor is equally intrigued. The relationship they together forge is dark, obsessive and dangerous, as Jessica is carefully groomed, then led down a rabbit hole that has been primed with lies and deceit. Emerging unscathed just may not be possible—for either of them.

The novel utilizes a structure that is apparently all the rage—dual first person perspectives in alternating chapters. Unfortunately, inside the heads of these characters is a disturbing place to be. Jessica is easily led and impulsive, unnaturally fixated on the professor conducting the research study. The professor, in return, is cold and calculating, full of sociopathic intent. Both are hiding similar life-altering secrets that serve as supporting subplots; both are wholly unlikable.

What saved this book from falling victim to its characters was a unique story that kept evolving. The reader is, from the very first page, encouraged to make predictions about where this piece is going, and in spite of some of the predictability, the authors dangle carrots and shiny that keep the reader engaged. It feels imperative to keep turning pages, not due to an investment in the players but instead to discover how their complicated and perverse story will end. This would make a great book club read, as it is sure to spark discussion.

Four big stars due to an innovative plot that propels the reader through at breakneck speed.



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