Mike and Al have been friends and colleagues for many years. Their friendship is under threat with Al poised to become Mike's boss. Sally and Al have been married for seven years, but neither of them is entirely happy. Meanwhile, Sally and Mike have been best friends since university. Now there's new couple Mike and Faye. They haven't been together long, but Mike is sure that it's the real deal.
Towards the end of summer they decide to spend the weekend together in Brighton. 'You only regret things you didn't do,' shares Faye. So, for one night, the couples exchange partners. The next day, they all know they have made a mistake and hope to return to their regular daily lives. However, none of them could ever imagine the consequences of that single night, which will last so much longer.
This story immediately gripped me with its moral dilemma, secrets and deceit. Despite the thought provoking drama, Andy's characters are relatable and likeable. This engaging story had me analysing the meaning of friendship, family, love, loyalty and fidelity. Better still, it kept me guessing until the very last pages.
Andy Jones has a PhD in biochemistry and has a career as an advertising copywriter. He is the author of The Two of Us, The Trouble with Henry and Zoe and Girl 99. Four is his fourth novel.
Reviewer: Andrea Molloy Hachette, RRP $37.99