Book Review: The Therapist by B.A. Paris
I’ve always been captivated by the idea of moving into a close-knit community—there’s something romantic about neighbors who know each other’s secrets, share cups of tea, and perhaps engage in a bit of intrigue. So when I heard about The Therapist by B.A. Paris, I felt a magnetic pull. Paris has a remarkable talent for weaving psychological tension and mystery, and her latest work does not disappoint.
In The Therapist, we meet Alice, a thirtysomething woman navigating the complexities of life in a new city. Having recently moved to a gated London enclave with her boyfriend Leo, Alice longs for connection and community, struggling with feelings of loneliness as she works from home. In an impulsive attempt to bond with her neighbors, she organizes a drinks party, only to unwittingly invite a private detective named Thomas, who reveals the chilling history of a murder that took place in Alice’s own home. The stakes quickly escalate as Alice discovers that Leo knew about the murder and chose to keep it from her, leading her to question not just her new home, but the very foundation of her relationship.
What struck me about The Therapist was the interplay between domestic tranquility and hidden darkness. Paris expertly captures the unsettling feeling of being a newcomer, trying to fit into an already established social fabric that brims with secrets. The characters, particularly Alice, showcase a mix of relatable vulnerability and naïveté, which can be frustrating but ultimately drives the plot forward and keeps readers engaged. I often found myself rooting for Alice, despite her questionable decisions. Isn’t that what makes a protagonist compelling?
The writing style is taut and suspenseful, with a pacing that builds both intrigue and tension. I particularly appreciated the moments of reflection Alice has about her situation—Paris excels in layering psychological depth within her narrative. While some plot points pushed the boundaries of believability (how can Alice not see through the clues surrounding her?), they also serve to amplify the sense of dread that permeates her experience.
One especially memorable moment that resonated with me was Alice’s growing paranoia at night, caught between the fear of a ghostly presence and the very real threat of a murderer. This masterful blending of psychological thriller elements with domestic life had me both on the edge of my seat and reflecting on my own vulnerabilities. Perhaps we all have fears that linger in the shadows of our homes, waiting for the right moment to surface.
While The Therapist isn’t without its flaws—some character choices might leave readers scratching their heads—I found the engaging plot and emotional depth to be more than enough to keep me enthralled until the last page.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers laden with mystery, complex relationships, and the thrill of domestic suspense, then I highly recommend The Therapist. It’s a gripping reminder of how our past can haunt our present, and how sometimes, the hardest person to understand is the one closest to us. I left this book pondering my own relationships and the hidden layers we might each carry. Whether you’re a long-time fan of B.A. Paris or new to her work, The Therapist is sure to provide an immersive reading experience that will leave you both tense and reflective.
Thank you, B.A. Paris and Harper Collins Publishers, for this haunting journey. For those interested in more of my thoughts, you can find my reviews at Reviews by Barb Saffer. Happy reading!