Editorial Review: It Could Have Been Her by Lisa Jewell

Overview and Introduction

At our review desk, we are always eager to dive into the latest psychological thrillers, and #1 New York Times bestselling author Lisa Jewell never disappoints. Her latest release, It Could Have Been Her, serves as a gripping follow-up to her previous thriller Don’t Let Him In. Marking the triumphant return of protagonist Jane Trevally, Jewell expertly constructs a complex labyrinth of long-buried trauma, domestic secrets, and chilling suspense. Our team found this novel to be a standout addition to contemporary mystery fiction, perfectly designed to captivate avid readers.

Spoiler-Free Synopsis

The narrative begins innocently on a quiet country estate where Jane Trevally is out walking her dogs. The peace is abruptly shattered when she encounters a lone, distressed white terrier with no sign of the teenage girl who was supposed to be looking after it. When the teenager is officially reported missing shortly thereafter, Jane takes it upon herself to return the dog to its registered owner hours away in London.

Her journey brings her face-to-face with Thornwood, a run-down house hidden in the deepest backwaters of Hampstead. Instantly, Jane is plunged into a state of high alert—she harbors a dark, deeply traumatic history with this exact house from twenty-five years ago. The hostile man who answers the door is a stranger to Jane and claims to know nothing about the missing girl. However, a fleeting glimpse of a haunted-looking woman through a window confirms Jane’s worst fears. Convinced that Thornwood holds the key to the missing teenager and her own unresolved past, Jane must confront the demons she spent decades trying to forget.

The Positives: What We Loved

• Immersive Atmosphere: Jewell’s depiction of the dilapidated Thornwood estate is masterfully eerie, creating a sense of Gothic claustrophobia that permeates every chapter.

• Compelling Character Arc: Jane’s internal struggle with her past trauma anchors the narrative, giving the thriller a profound emotional weight that elevates it above standard genre tropes.

• Intricate Plotting: Our reviewers particularly enjoyed how the dual exploration of Jane’s memories and the present-day disappearance creates a propulsive, fast-paced rhythm that builds toward an explosive climax.

The Negatives: Our Critique

• Sequel Continuity: Although the central mystery stands alone, our team notes that readers who have not read Don’t Let Him In may struggle to fully grasp the nuances of Jane’s character evolution.

• Narrative Coincidences: A few plot developments, particularly the initial discovery of the dog, rely heavily on convenient timing, requiring a slight suspension of disbelief.

Final Verdict

Ultimately, It Could Have Been Her is a deliciously dark, addictive psychological thriller. By blending emotional depth with relentless suspense, Lisa Jewell delivers a standout hit that our team highly recommends.

Star Rating: 4.5 / 5 Stars

– The Moving Words Review