Book Review | Voyeur by Francesca Reece
Voyeur tells the story of its main characters Leah and her soon to be boss, Michael.
Set in a dual POV, we first meet Leah. A twenty-something year old seemingly adrift in Paris. She is not quite sure what she wants to do in the future but tries her luck by applying for a research assistant position for a famous writer, Michael Young.
The first moment Michael lays eyes on Leah, his memory hurtles right back to his youth and first love, Astrid. He can't believe the doppelganger before his eyes, and sure enough, the assistant position is Leah's.
As the story progresses, we are taken to St Luc, France, at the height of summer. Leah accompanies Michael and his family on their summer trip so she can continue her role as his assistant. Amid the long days thick with salty air, She is also tasked with transcribing Michael's journals from his unruly youth.
Leah feels more content among the beach trips, day-drinking, flirting with neighbours, and Michael is quite the opposite. The summer rolls by, and through Michael's journals, Leah starts to uncover the history of Astrid. Subsequently, his freakish obsession with Leah starts to make sense.
An interesting read, that's for sure! I am still not entirely sure how I feel about this novel. I couldn't quite vibe with Leah. Definitely not with Michael.
Following Michael's youth through his perspective (and journals) shows just how much of a douchebag he is. Once I clocked on to what he was up to, I couldn't shake the frustration. In saying that, I always admire when a writer can expertly create a character that you'll love to hate. Major Maurice Swift energy.
Voyeur plays host to a much broader cast than just these two. We learn the ins and outs of Michael's family and the somewhat dysfunctional dynamic. The variety of French lovers, either sunbathing or taking drugs with Leah and co. And, of course, Astrid. The girl who was destined for success.
Uncovering the layers of this scandalous story was intriguing enough. Michael's infatuation with Leah becomes crystal clear, but the ending stumped me. I still struggle to understand what actually happened all those years ago with Astrid.