Cross Her Heart: A Novel

Cross Her Heart was my first Sarah Pinborough book, and it was such a thrilling ride that I purchased her first book, Behind Her Eyes, on audiobook. The story is told in alternating points of view. It is told in both first- and third-person from the view points of the main character, Lisa; from that of her best friend of ten years, Marilyn; from that of Lisa’s daughter, Ava; and from that of “Her,” someone who you find out about midway through the book. The story starts out with Lisa describing her work situation. She works with Marilyn in an office with a group of other women. Marilyn is married to Richard. From the outside, Lisa and Marilyn’s lives look picture perfect. Both women have deep, brooding secrets that start to eat at them throughout the book. A long time ago, Lisa did something really horrible. The story takes us on Lisa’s psychological roller coaster as she thinks she is going crazy and that someone knows her secret and is out to get her. I really liked all of the characters in this book except for “Her.” From the moment she is introduced, the reader knows this character is trouble. She is evil and will stop at nothing to get what she wants, even though what she wants is sick and twisted. Lisa defines herself as a true heroine when Ava is kidnapped and Lisa goes on a mission to find her. She transforms into the tough-skinned version of herself, doesn’t feel sorry for herself, and gets the job done. Aren’t those the characteristics we all look for in a strong female character? Marilyn is also easily likable and discovers her own self worth throughout the book. I found myself cheering for her when she stands up to the snobby girl at the office. Overall, I really liked this book. It kept me engaged the whole time, and I couldn’t wait to see what the final outcome would be. Brava, Sarah Pinborough. I look forward to reading more by this fabulous author.