If you're thinking this is going to be a book about two couples who throw their keys into a bowl and swap partners, you'd be wrong. The Swap by Robyn Harding isn't a book about a swingers party gone wrong. It's a story about a master manipulator and the damage she inflicts on those unfortunate enough to be drawn into her inner circle.
Freya is a charismatic, creative, attractive and charming social media influencer who inspires absolute devotion from her retired athlete husband. Offering pottery classes in her isolated community, Freya meets teenager and pottery student Low Morrison and middle aged gift shop owner Jamie.
Toxic relationships abound in this novel, both between the female characters as well as husband and wife. Jamie and Low try various ways to compete for Freya's friendship and affection, each wanting to be the 'best friend' and confidant and escalating their attempts in order to ensure their success.
I was reading this at the same time as My Best Friend's Murder by Polly Phillips (also by Simon & Schuster) and wanted to shake Jamie and Low by the shoulders and cry 'Get a grip, she's not worth it!' If by some miracle either of these two characters did listen to my advice and move on to healthier and more fulfilling relationships, there wouldn't be a story, so I totally get it.
Nevertheless, the tension escalates in The Swap until it reaches an unexpected conclusion, which was a satisfying end to the secrets, manipulation and outright obsession on display here. A good read.
