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PLAY HIM PLAY HER: A Psychological Thriller Series
Secret Window meets Deep Water in this "irresistible domestic drama" (Booklist, Utah) from the award-winning author of No Good Lie and the Detective Temeke Crime Series, in which a woman's death reveals the perilous sacrifices an actor makes—and the secrets he keeps—in the pursuit of fame.
If all the world's a stage, who can you really trust?
Celebrity actor Zane Osborne plays London’s renowned plastic surgeon and secret serial killer, Ethan Holloway, in the hit series Play Him, Play Her. Zane’s wife Lilja, former chef and 39-year-old mother, simply wants to live out her dream of starting a restaurant. None of the perks of fame make up for Zane treating her coldly, drinking too much, and neglecting his family. When Lilja discovers Zane is having an affair with his assistant Nic, the polished facade of their life splits wide open.
Zane’s process of method acting has often resulted in the entanglement of his life with Holloway’s, and as the lines between reality and script blur beyond recognition, Zane loses sight of not only who he is, but what he has done. When Nic goes missing after his birthday party, a popular podcast speculates Zane is the prime suspect. As Lilja fears for her and her daughter’s safety and Zane struggles to detach his identity from his character’s, they will have to discover if it’s possible for Zane to play an adulterer and a serial killer without becoming one himself.
Told in dual points of view, PLAY HIM, PLAY HER combines the toxic relationships of The Wife Upstairs by Rachel Hawkins meets the propulsive suspense of A Good Marriage by Kimberly McCreight.
Praise for PLAY HIM PLAY HER
‘Filled with tension, it draws you in from the very first paragraph. A psychological thriller of the very best.’ – KRISTIN GLEESON, USA Today bestselling author of the Women of Ireland series.
‘Seriously good! So unique and sophisticated. It’s a ready-made skip straight to Netflix!’– B.A. MORTON, Bestselling author of the Detectives Fuller & Harte series.
If all the world's a stage, who can you really trust?
Celebrity actor Zane Osborne plays London’s renowned plastic surgeon and secret serial killer, Ethan Holloway, in the hit series Play Him, Play Her. Zane’s wife Lilja, former chef and 39-year-old mother, simply wants to live out her dream of starting a restaurant. None of the perks of fame make up for Zane treating her coldly, drinking too much, and neglecting his family. When Lilja discovers Zane is having an affair with his assistant Nic, the polished facade of their life splits wide open.
Zane’s process of method acting has often resulted in the entanglement of his life with Holloway’s, and as the lines between reality and script blur beyond recognition, Zane loses sight of not only who he is, but what he has done. When Nic goes missing after his birthday party, a popular podcast speculates Zane is the prime suspect. As Lilja fears for her and her daughter’s safety and Zane struggles to detach his identity from his character’s, they will have to discover if it’s possible for Zane to play an adulterer and a serial killer without becoming one himself.
Told in dual points of view, PLAY HIM, PLAY HER combines the toxic relationships of The Wife Upstairs by Rachel Hawkins meets the propulsive suspense of A Good Marriage by Kimberly McCreight.
Praise for PLAY HIM PLAY HER
‘Filled with tension, it draws you in from the very first paragraph. A psychological thriller of the very best.’ – KRISTIN GLEESON, USA Today bestselling author of the Women of Ireland series.
‘Seriously good! So unique and sophisticated. It’s a ready-made skip straight to Netflix!’– B.A. MORTON, Bestselling author of the Detectives Fuller & Harte series.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2024
69 people are currently reading
273 people want to read
About the author
Claire Stibbe
16 books124 followersClaire Stibbe is the winner of the 2021 Page Turner Award for Fiction and a prolific novelist. Today, she writes dark, domestic suspense novels that draw on her experiences as a survivor of domestic abuse. Her aim is not just to tell gripping stories but to inspire other survivors to find freedom and independence.
Claire worked as an Executive Assistant for twenty years in both London and the Far East. She now devotes herself full-time to writing. Her novels owe much to her years as a member of the Albuquerque Police Citizen’s Academy where her main focus was the impact of violence towards women and their families.
Claire now lives in Utah with her husband and son, and her cat, Edward, who sleeps on her desk while she writes. She is addicted to reading and sharing the crime fiction love. To keep up-to-date with her new books and blogs, sign up for her newsletter at: https://linktr.ee/ClaireStibbe
Member: Albuquerque Police Citizen’s Academy, International Thriller Writers, CWA, Sisters in Crime, Alliance of Independent Authors and Mystery Writers, New Mexico Book Co-op, and Southwest Writers.
Awards: Winner of the Page Turner Writing Award and the New Mexico/Arizona Book Awards, Wishing Shelf Silver Medal Award, Award-Winning Finalist 2019 Best Book Awards sponsored by American Book Fest.
Claire worked as an Executive Assistant for twenty years in both London and the Far East. She now devotes herself full-time to writing. Her novels owe much to her years as a member of the Albuquerque Police Citizen’s Academy where her main focus was the impact of violence towards women and their families.
Claire now lives in Utah with her husband and son, and her cat, Edward, who sleeps on her desk while she writes. She is addicted to reading and sharing the crime fiction love. To keep up-to-date with her new books and blogs, sign up for her newsletter at: https://linktr.ee/ClaireStibbe
Member: Albuquerque Police Citizen’s Academy, International Thriller Writers, CWA, Sisters in Crime, Alliance of Independent Authors and Mystery Writers, New Mexico Book Co-op, and Southwest Writers.
Awards: Winner of the Page Turner Writing Award and the New Mexico/Arizona Book Awards, Wishing Shelf Silver Medal Award, Award-Winning Finalist 2019 Best Book Awards sponsored by American Book Fest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
July 9, 2025
Play Him, Play Her was an intriguing read, had a very unique story line & I truly enjoyed it. The blurred lines between facts and fiction set the tone for a very good story. I enjoyed the alternating POVs between Lilja & Zane and hearing their thoughts in first person. The pacing was perfect, as it built tension just enough to keep you turning the pages.
Lilja, ex chef and stay at home mom/wife is married to Zane.. Zane is an actor playing Dr. Holloway in a hit series Play Him, Play Her. Zane gets so engrossed in the character he’s playing, he slowly looses touch with reality. After Zane’s mistress ends up dead, Dr. Holloway springs into action to cover up the events that led to this her untimely death.
Overall a recommended read for fans of domestic thrillers, that enjoy unreliable narrator tropes. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lilja, ex chef and stay at home mom/wife is married to Zane.. Zane is an actor playing Dr. Holloway in a hit series Play Him, Play Her. Zane gets so engrossed in the character he’s playing, he slowly looses touch with reality. After Zane’s mistress ends up dead, Dr. Holloway springs into action to cover up the events that led to this her untimely death.
Overall a recommended read for fans of domestic thrillers, that enjoy unreliable narrator tropes. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 9, 2024
PLAY HIM PLAY HER is a dark psychological thriller by Claire Stibbe.
Lilja and Zane Osborne are celebrities. Lilja is a former chef and mother to Bizzy, but has the dream of starting a restaurant. Her husband, Zane is an actor and is involved in the filming of a new season of “Play Him, Play Her, directed by James English. In the hit series, Zane plays London’s renowned plastic surgeon, Ethan Holloway, who treats burn victims and is also a secret serial killer.
The story is told in dual points of view, Lilja, Zane and a third voice of Holloway.
In the series the players revolve around:
Dr. Holloway
Maura (Holloway’s wife)
Amaya (Patient in her late teens burned badly being treated by Dr. Holloway, threatened and afraid for her life)
Meggy Russell (Celebrity psychoanalyst)
Quiana Thompson- (his co-star and plays Holloway’s love interest)
But Zane neglects his family, drinking too much and starts to manifest Holloway in everything he feels. He becomes a stranger to his wife and lives and breathes his characters. The lines between reality and script start to blur.
When Lilja discovers Zane is having an affair with his assistant Nic, everything changes.
Nic is convinced that Zane will leave his wife for her, and takes photos of them for retaliation. Nic is reported missing by her roommate and turns up dead on the beach. Zane soon becomes the prime suspect.
But how much could he immerse himself into the life of a serial killer without becoming one?
If you love an intelligent dark psychological thriller that keeps you guessing right to the last page, don’t miss out on this one.
Many thanks to the author and The Book Club Reviewer Request Group (FB) for providing me with a digital copy.
Lilja and Zane Osborne are celebrities. Lilja is a former chef and mother to Bizzy, but has the dream of starting a restaurant. Her husband, Zane is an actor and is involved in the filming of a new season of “Play Him, Play Her, directed by James English. In the hit series, Zane plays London’s renowned plastic surgeon, Ethan Holloway, who treats burn victims and is also a secret serial killer.
The story is told in dual points of view, Lilja, Zane and a third voice of Holloway.
In the series the players revolve around:
Dr. Holloway
Maura (Holloway’s wife)
Amaya (Patient in her late teens burned badly being treated by Dr. Holloway, threatened and afraid for her life)
Meggy Russell (Celebrity psychoanalyst)
Quiana Thompson- (his co-star and plays Holloway’s love interest)
But Zane neglects his family, drinking too much and starts to manifest Holloway in everything he feels. He becomes a stranger to his wife and lives and breathes his characters. The lines between reality and script start to blur.
When Lilja discovers Zane is having an affair with his assistant Nic, everything changes.
Nic is convinced that Zane will leave his wife for her, and takes photos of them for retaliation. Nic is reported missing by her roommate and turns up dead on the beach. Zane soon becomes the prime suspect.
But how much could he immerse himself into the life of a serial killer without becoming one?
If you love an intelligent dark psychological thriller that keeps you guessing right to the last page, don’t miss out on this one.
Many thanks to the author and The Book Club Reviewer Request Group (FB) for providing me with a digital copy.
June 21, 2024
This isn’t the first book I’ve read by this author so was super excited to start. The book is split into three parts and told from the perspective of Zane and Lilja who are married. Ooo I wasn’t expecting that prologue coming across a body then being thrown straight in to six months earlier. The TV series Zane stars in is play him play her. His character is Holloway, a cosmetic serial killer. I Loved the script lines and Twitter feeds that were filtered throughout the book. I loved getting to know the characters from the now to the before.
It’s eerie how much Holloway’s life becomes Zane’s including his affair with his assistant. What would I do if I was Lilja? Is it love? There’s so much levels of stalking it’s hard to identify who the worst character is for it. I couldn’t believe how much Lilja protects Zane but this is definitely for her own sake and her daughters. It’s really intense and suspenseful but fast paced at the same time. When the relationship starts to crumble the book intensity builds up. I loved the layers of further deceit from a financial perspective. Lilja is always on the ball and so is the therapist. Such a brilliant read.
It’s eerie how much Holloway’s life becomes Zane’s including his affair with his assistant. What would I do if I was Lilja? Is it love? There’s so much levels of stalking it’s hard to identify who the worst character is for it. I couldn’t believe how much Lilja protects Zane but this is definitely for her own sake and her daughters. It’s really intense and suspenseful but fast paced at the same time. When the relationship starts to crumble the book intensity builds up. I loved the layers of further deceit from a financial perspective. Lilja is always on the ball and so is the therapist. Such a brilliant read.
June 5, 2024
Well, here we are with another amazing read! This is my first book by this author, and it most certainly won't be my last. I will definitely go back and read her previous books after reading this one.
Now I have read many thriller books, and this just was different for me. All i keep thinking is what did i just read?!
Now, it has 2 POVs from Zane and Lilja. We see the storyline build and the development of the characters from the start to the very end. Stibbes has done an amazing job with these characters it was believable, and It really pulled you into their story.
The plot was fast-paced, gripping, and had twist and turns all throughout to keep you on the edge of your seat. The author does an amazing job weaving different topics together to give you a captivating, dark, and thrilling read!
If you are looking for a psychological/ dark thriller, then this is the book for you. Give it a read. You won't be disappointed!
Now I have read many thriller books, and this just was different for me. All i keep thinking is what did i just read?!
Now, it has 2 POVs from Zane and Lilja. We see the storyline build and the development of the characters from the start to the very end. Stibbes has done an amazing job with these characters it was believable, and It really pulled you into their story.
The plot was fast-paced, gripping, and had twist and turns all throughout to keep you on the edge of your seat. The author does an amazing job weaving different topics together to give you a captivating, dark, and thrilling read!
If you are looking for a psychological/ dark thriller, then this is the book for you. Give it a read. You won't be disappointed!
June 22, 2024
📱E-Book Review📱
Play Him, Play Her
Claire Stibbe
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This time last year, I read my first book by this author, No Good Lie.
I loved it so much that I've been eagerly awaiting the next book to arrive and oh my gosh! I don't know what I was expecting, but this was an even better read!
It's quite a complex plot with a great cast of characters.
I love that we hear multiple pov's which allows us to see much deeper into the minds of each character - including Ethan.
But this showcased the gradual decline of Zane which was utterly mesmerising to see.
I love being able to see the thoughts and feelings of the characters, especially the bad ones! - seeing what makes them tick really intrigued me!
The writing style completely sucks you into the story and once again, I found this really uncomfortable in places - uncomfortable in a good way though!
This was packed with twists and turns and I loved how the storylines were woven around each other, coming together skillfully to a thrilling conclusion that will have you questioning everything you've just read!
This had me on edge throughout and the tension builds even further as we race to the huge ending!
I honestly couldn't put this down and am again left impatiently awaiting the next book!
Play Him, Play Her
Claire Stibbe
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This time last year, I read my first book by this author, No Good Lie.
I loved it so much that I've been eagerly awaiting the next book to arrive and oh my gosh! I don't know what I was expecting, but this was an even better read!
It's quite a complex plot with a great cast of characters.
I love that we hear multiple pov's which allows us to see much deeper into the minds of each character - including Ethan.
But this showcased the gradual decline of Zane which was utterly mesmerising to see.
I love being able to see the thoughts and feelings of the characters, especially the bad ones! - seeing what makes them tick really intrigued me!
The writing style completely sucks you into the story and once again, I found this really uncomfortable in places - uncomfortable in a good way though!
This was packed with twists and turns and I loved how the storylines were woven around each other, coming together skillfully to a thrilling conclusion that will have you questioning everything you've just read!
This had me on edge throughout and the tension builds even further as we race to the huge ending!
I honestly couldn't put this down and am again left impatiently awaiting the next book!
May 31, 2024
Play Him/Play Her is a very intriguing read. Although it was written with two narrators it was easy to distinguish the POV by the chapter titles and the tone. In addition to Zane, the actor husband and his wife, Lilja there is a third voice - the character Holloway. He is a doctor/serial killer. Zane immerses himself in his character's life to prepare for his roles. Zane becomes increasingly confused when he hears Holloway talking to him. It's difficult for him to discern reality from fiction.
Zane is a vile person in his own right. As the story progresses, he becomes an abuser, adulterer, and a murderer. The book has enough suspense to keep you up at night. I applaud the author for writing a psychological thriller without offensive language. I enjoyed this book so much that I will be seeking out her other novels.
Zane is a vile person in his own right. As the story progresses, he becomes an abuser, adulterer, and a murderer. The book has enough suspense to keep you up at night. I applaud the author for writing a psychological thriller without offensive language. I enjoyed this book so much that I will be seeking out her other novels.
June 3, 2024
What a clever, intricate, sophisticated thriller. Switching between Zane and Lilja’s point of view gave you a whole view of what was going on.
The premise for this book was unlike any other thriller I’ve read.
The characters were so well developed and believable, I was constantly trying to guess ahead and I never saw what was coming.
The whole book had me gripped but the final chapters I literally couldn’t tear my eyes away. I never saw that plot twist coming either.
If you’re looking for a good thriller where the pace starts slow and then picks up to 100mph then this is a book fo
The premise for this book was unlike any other thriller I’ve read.
The characters were so well developed and believable, I was constantly trying to guess ahead and I never saw what was coming.
The whole book had me gripped but the final chapters I literally couldn’t tear my eyes away. I never saw that plot twist coming either.
If you’re looking for a good thriller where the pace starts slow and then picks up to 100mph then this is a book fo
June 16, 2024
In Claire Stibbe’s latest psychological thriller, we follow the story of method actor Zane Osbourne and his increasingly unhappily married wife, Lilja. Told from both their perspectives, and set in England, this well-written, well-paced, intriguing story unfolds…and unravels.
We watch Zane spiral further into the role of the serial killer doctor he portrays on his Netflix show, using his pretty assistant in adulterous ways to practice his scenes, as the alluring voice of his alter ego TV character edges him further toward the dark side.
When his pretty, young assistant goes missing and rumors fly on social media and news outlets, many are quick to point their fingers at Zane, especially when damning photographs surface.
But is his wife just another victim of her husband’s misogyny, infidelity, and self-grandiosity?
Thanks to the dual POV, readers are privy to plenty in Play Him Play Her, but left guessing the full truth until the final pages—as it should be. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, suspenseful plots, and writing with British panache, give this one a spin!
We watch Zane spiral further into the role of the serial killer doctor he portrays on his Netflix show, using his pretty assistant in adulterous ways to practice his scenes, as the alluring voice of his alter ego TV character edges him further toward the dark side.
When his pretty, young assistant goes missing and rumors fly on social media and news outlets, many are quick to point their fingers at Zane, especially when damning photographs surface.
But is his wife just another victim of her husband’s misogyny, infidelity, and self-grandiosity?
Thanks to the dual POV, readers are privy to plenty in Play Him Play Her, but left guessing the full truth until the final pages—as it should be. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, suspenseful plots, and writing with British panache, give this one a spin!
May 27, 2024
Wow this is such a good book. Tense through out the book. It kept you wanting more. Such a rollercoaster of a book I haven’t read anything like this in ages. Loved the characters and the story . Would recommend .
June 22, 2024
Intense psychological thriller, and gripping suspense to create a captivating and thrilling read. The author expertly weaves together the worlds of fame, deceit, affairs, family and the dark side of the entertainment industry in a way that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
The characters are complex and beautifully flawed, and the exploration of the lengths people will go to in order to achieve their dreams is both chilling and thought-provoking. The contrast between Zane's public persona and his private struggles is expertly portrayed, making him a fascinating and multi-dimensional protagonist. The tone of the voice of Holloway is genius.
The twists and turns in the plot keep the reader guessing until the very end, and the fast-paced narrative will leave you unable to put the book down. Claire’s writing is sharp and engaging, and her ability to create tension and suspense is truly impressive.
Overall, PLAY HIM, PLAY HER is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and domestic dramas. It's a clever and witty exploration of the thin line between reality and fiction, fame and obscurity, and the lengths people will go to in order to protect their secrets. Don't miss out on this gripping and unforgettable tale.
The characters are complex and beautifully flawed, and the exploration of the lengths people will go to in order to achieve their dreams is both chilling and thought-provoking. The contrast between Zane's public persona and his private struggles is expertly portrayed, making him a fascinating and multi-dimensional protagonist. The tone of the voice of Holloway is genius.
The twists and turns in the plot keep the reader guessing until the very end, and the fast-paced narrative will leave you unable to put the book down. Claire’s writing is sharp and engaging, and her ability to create tension and suspense is truly impressive.
Overall, PLAY HIM, PLAY HER is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and domestic dramas. It's a clever and witty exploration of the thin line between reality and fiction, fame and obscurity, and the lengths people will go to in order to protect their secrets. Don't miss out on this gripping and unforgettable tale.
November 25, 2025
This book made me feel a little like I was losing my mind. And the further I read, the less sure I became that the narrator could be trusted.
Like any fantastic thriller, this one kept me guessing twist after twist right up until the end. I absolutely would never have guessed the ending on this one. I've read I think one book by her before and her writing is brilliant. Deep, complex, flawed, real characters that are almost all morally grey - or in some cases straight-up evil.
She is such a talented writer being able to create the complete atmosphere making me feel like I was losing my mind - #InZane. The descriptions and embodiment of Zane and Holloway's characters were just brilliant. I feel like I'm repeating myself, but this is one of those stories that's just so deep and rich but is hard to describe without spoilers.
So, mostly - READ IT. You won't regret it. Unless some of the CWs affect you.
If you love a great thriller, especially if you've read Claire Stibbe books before and loved them, you'll love this one. She weaves complex, real, morally grey characters that will make you question everything just a little bit.
Content Warnings: Adult Situations, Adult Language, Mental Illness, Infidelity, Violence, Fear Elements, Crime, Fighting, Death, Domestic Abuse
Like any fantastic thriller, this one kept me guessing twist after twist right up until the end. I absolutely would never have guessed the ending on this one. I've read I think one book by her before and her writing is brilliant. Deep, complex, flawed, real characters that are almost all morally grey - or in some cases straight-up evil.
She is such a talented writer being able to create the complete atmosphere making me feel like I was losing my mind - #InZane. The descriptions and embodiment of Zane and Holloway's characters were just brilliant. I feel like I'm repeating myself, but this is one of those stories that's just so deep and rich but is hard to describe without spoilers.
So, mostly - READ IT. You won't regret it. Unless some of the CWs affect you.
If you love a great thriller, especially if you've read Claire Stibbe books before and loved them, you'll love this one. She weaves complex, real, morally grey characters that will make you question everything just a little bit.
Content Warnings: Adult Situations, Adult Language, Mental Illness, Infidelity, Violence, Fear Elements, Crime, Fighting, Death, Domestic Abuse
June 4, 2024
📚📖Book Tour! Book Review📖📚
Play Him, Play Her
by Claire Stibbes
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“🎵 …Those thoughts I can't deny (Deny)
These sleeping dogs won't lie (Won't lie)
And all I've tried to hide
It's eating me apart
Trace this line back
I'll keep you my dirty little secret (Dirty little secret)🎶”
~ All American Rejects –
STILL IN SHOCK…what did I just finish reading? In addition to potentially re-reading, rethinking, and even re-writing this review, I may just be potentially sleeping with one eye open after finishing Claire Stibbes' latest psychological thriller! I am sure it is a case of #itsnotyouitsme, but I am still perplexed, confuddled, and utterly gob smacked with this “he said, she said” cat-and-mouse thriller, reeling as I am just not sure what was real and what was the truth. More of a total second-guessing, mind-bending novel, I must admit I struggled with some of the back and forth between POV's as well as some of the vernacular, having not been raised nor spent much time in the UK.
That said, Stibbs’ chapters lend themselves to a Lucy Foley-esque style of writing, begging the reader to continue turning the pages. And that ending… whoa. For a slow-burn start, it ramped up and kept my heart racing with each page turned.
Thank you to @lovebookstours and @ClaireStibbe for a free ebook copy in return for an honest review.
#bookreview #PlayHimPlayHer #READ #bookreviewerofinstagram #thriller #bookstagram #booklover #bookworm #book #reading #ilovereading #ilovebooks #review #Ad #FreeReview #LBTCrew #LBTThriller #booktour
Play Him, Play Her
by Claire Stibbes
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“🎵 …Those thoughts I can't deny (Deny)
These sleeping dogs won't lie (Won't lie)
And all I've tried to hide
It's eating me apart
Trace this line back
I'll keep you my dirty little secret (Dirty little secret)🎶”
~ All American Rejects –
STILL IN SHOCK…what did I just finish reading? In addition to potentially re-reading, rethinking, and even re-writing this review, I may just be potentially sleeping with one eye open after finishing Claire Stibbes' latest psychological thriller! I am sure it is a case of #itsnotyouitsme, but I am still perplexed, confuddled, and utterly gob smacked with this “he said, she said” cat-and-mouse thriller, reeling as I am just not sure what was real and what was the truth. More of a total second-guessing, mind-bending novel, I must admit I struggled with some of the back and forth between POV's as well as some of the vernacular, having not been raised nor spent much time in the UK.
That said, Stibbs’ chapters lend themselves to a Lucy Foley-esque style of writing, begging the reader to continue turning the pages. And that ending… whoa. For a slow-burn start, it ramped up and kept my heart racing with each page turned.
Thank you to @lovebookstours and @ClaireStibbe for a free ebook copy in return for an honest review.
#bookreview #PlayHimPlayHer #READ #bookreviewerofinstagram #thriller #bookstagram #booklover #bookworm #book #reading #ilovereading #ilovebooks #review #Ad #FreeReview #LBTCrew #LBTThriller #booktour
July 26, 2024
This was such a fun read and new twist on a psychological thriller. So many times we hear in the media how method actors blur the line of what is reasonable. Jared Leto, Al Pacino, and Christian Bale are some of the first to jump to my mind in just how far they were willing to go to really immerse themselves in the character.
It is not unrealistic to wonder if a method actor may become too immersed and cross some very serious lines which makes this story even more spine chilling.
Zane Osborne is an actor who has always been a method actor but when he lands the role of Dr. Holloway, a serial cheater and murderer, the role fits a little too well. His wife Lilja, is trying to find the man who her husband used to be, the man she fell in love with, underneath the Dr. Holloway that seems to have overtaken her husband. When Zane’s assistant Nic goes missing, Lilja has her suspicions but needs to prioritize the safety of her and her daughter. Is she living with Zane, her loving husband or the sociopath Dr. Holloway?
Claire’s writing style is perfect for the thriller genre. The POV switches between Lilja and Zane throughout the book and you really feel the unease and slight panic during Lilja’s chapters and the distress and arrogance in Zane’s. The placement of script lines and tweets are perfect and the twist is just chef’s kiss. This won’t be the last book I read of Claire’s.
It is not unrealistic to wonder if a method actor may become too immersed and cross some very serious lines which makes this story even more spine chilling.
Zane Osborne is an actor who has always been a method actor but when he lands the role of Dr. Holloway, a serial cheater and murderer, the role fits a little too well. His wife Lilja, is trying to find the man who her husband used to be, the man she fell in love with, underneath the Dr. Holloway that seems to have overtaken her husband. When Zane’s assistant Nic goes missing, Lilja has her suspicions but needs to prioritize the safety of her and her daughter. Is she living with Zane, her loving husband or the sociopath Dr. Holloway?
Claire’s writing style is perfect for the thriller genre. The POV switches between Lilja and Zane throughout the book and you really feel the unease and slight panic during Lilja’s chapters and the distress and arrogance in Zane’s. The placement of script lines and tweets are perfect and the twist is just chef’s kiss. This won’t be the last book I read of Claire’s.
November 26, 2025
A psychological thriller that blurs the line between reality and performance, and I found myself hooked from the very first chapters.
The story follows Zane, a method actor who takes his roles to extremes, and his wife Lilja, who is trying to hold her family together while watching her husband slip further into darkness. Zane’s latest role as Dr. Holloway, a serial killer, starts to consume him in ways that feel terrifyingly real. At times, I wasn’t sure if I was reading about Zane the actor or Holloway the character, and that confusion made the book even more gripping.
I loved how the chapters switched between Zane and Lilja’s perspectives. It gave me a full view of what was happening. Neither felt completely trustworthy, which kept me guessing right up until the end. The tension built slowly and then hit hard, with twists that I didn’t see coming.
Zane was unsettling, arrogant, and dangerous. The writing captured their emotions so well that I could feel Lilja’s unease and Zane’s descent into obsession.
It’s the kind of thriller that makes you question what’s real and keeps you turning the pages.
The story follows Zane, a method actor who takes his roles to extremes, and his wife Lilja, who is trying to hold her family together while watching her husband slip further into darkness. Zane’s latest role as Dr. Holloway, a serial killer, starts to consume him in ways that feel terrifyingly real. At times, I wasn’t sure if I was reading about Zane the actor or Holloway the character, and that confusion made the book even more gripping.
I loved how the chapters switched between Zane and Lilja’s perspectives. It gave me a full view of what was happening. Neither felt completely trustworthy, which kept me guessing right up until the end. The tension built slowly and then hit hard, with twists that I didn’t see coming.
Zane was unsettling, arrogant, and dangerous. The writing captured their emotions so well that I could feel Lilja’s unease and Zane’s descent into obsession.
It’s the kind of thriller that makes you question what’s real and keeps you turning the pages.
June 19, 2024
What a wonderful twisty read! This book had me wondering what was real and what was just an act. Zane is a method actor whose current role is Dr. Holloway, a plastic surgeon and serial killer. His process of acting has him fully living like his characters, but how much in character will he really go? His wife Lilja is an out of work chef with dreams of opening a restaurant. Zane’s behavior has her suspicious and questioning everything especially when Zane’s assistant disappears. Could Zane have gone too much in character? The story is told from both points of view but since neither character was trustworthy I was kept guessing to the very end. If you enjoy a twisty thriller I highly recommend that you give this book a try.
Thanks to the author and Love Book Tours for providing a copy for my honest review.
Thanks to the author and Love Book Tours for providing a copy for my honest review.
July 14, 2024
I loved the other book I read by this author so I had high hopes for this one and it didn't disappoint me.
It was well written with a compelling story line and well developed characters that were all so real and relatable, I loved them all even the villains 😁
I love books that have multiple points of view and this book gave me that in spade loads, I loved it and I found it so interesting that we even got a point of view of Ethan Holloway who isn't a real person but the character played by Zane. It was so cleverly done and see everything through the eyes and mind of the characters and watching how they declined and how their minds worked was so intriguing and I couldn't put it down.
It is so atmospheric and tense and left me breathless and desperately wanting more.
I would highly recommend
It was well written with a compelling story line and well developed characters that were all so real and relatable, I loved them all even the villains 😁
I love books that have multiple points of view and this book gave me that in spade loads, I loved it and I found it so interesting that we even got a point of view of Ethan Holloway who isn't a real person but the character played by Zane. It was so cleverly done and see everything through the eyes and mind of the characters and watching how they declined and how their minds worked was so intriguing and I couldn't put it down.
It is so atmospheric and tense and left me breathless and desperately wanting more.
I would highly recommend
November 18, 2025
An interesting and different take on a psychological thriller.
Zane is a method actor, but does he take it too far when he starts hearing his character talking to him? Is Holloway actually possessing him? And will it drive him to murder?
Interspersed with script segments and social media posts, this is a uniquely written book which makes it fast flowing and easy to read.
There were a couple of twists I saw coming and a couple I didn't, although I didn't really get in to the story until about 40% in as I found it a little bit of a slow burn.
I feel like Zane's descent into madness happened a little too quick, as if the story was being forced to move on quicker than appropriate for the plot, but it doesn't take away from this edge of your seat thriller.
I will be looking out for more from this author!
Zane is a method actor, but does he take it too far when he starts hearing his character talking to him? Is Holloway actually possessing him? And will it drive him to murder?
Interspersed with script segments and social media posts, this is a uniquely written book which makes it fast flowing and easy to read.
There were a couple of twists I saw coming and a couple I didn't, although I didn't really get in to the story until about 40% in as I found it a little bit of a slow burn.
I feel like Zane's descent into madness happened a little too quick, as if the story was being forced to move on quicker than appropriate for the plot, but it doesn't take away from this edge of your seat thriller.
I will be looking out for more from this author!
November 20, 2025
Play Him Play Her is a tense and absorbing psychological thriller about a marriage built on secrets and shifting power. Zane, a committed method actor, mixes his work with his real life, while Lilja starts questioning everything he says and does. When his assistant disappears, the cracks get bigger, and the story turns into a sharp look at trust and control.
The dual perspective works well. Zane's controlled image contrasts with Lilja's rising doubt, and the modern touches, scripts, social media, and behind-the-scenes moments keep the story fresh. The pacing stays tight, the twist hits hard, and the tension grows page by page.
A small note: a few side characters could use more depth to make their choices feel more grounded. That would add more weight to the core conflict.
Overall, it's gripping, smart, and full of tension.
The dual perspective works well. Zane's controlled image contrasts with Lilja's rising doubt, and the modern touches, scripts, social media, and behind-the-scenes moments keep the story fresh. The pacing stays tight, the twist hits hard, and the tension grows page by page.
A small note: a few side characters could use more depth to make their choices feel more grounded. That would add more weight to the core conflict.
Overall, it's gripping, smart, and full of tension.
May 16, 2024
Wow! This is seriously good!
So clever and sophisticated. The whole creation is so unique, with Zane and Lilja's POV supplemented by Holloway's voice, the lines from the play and the social media commentary, you gain an almost 360-degree view of what's going on. The plot is complex and ingenious with a cast of well-drawn characters who really do make you wonder just what they’ll do next – and to whom!
Zane's decline is superbly written and scarily brilliant, and the mounting suspense particularly towards the end is riveting, edge of the seat stuff!
And the denouement … first class!
If you love an intelligent thriller that keeps you guessing right to the last page, then this is the book for you.
Wholly recommended!
So clever and sophisticated. The whole creation is so unique, with Zane and Lilja's POV supplemented by Holloway's voice, the lines from the play and the social media commentary, you gain an almost 360-degree view of what's going on. The plot is complex and ingenious with a cast of well-drawn characters who really do make you wonder just what they’ll do next – and to whom!
Zane's decline is superbly written and scarily brilliant, and the mounting suspense particularly towards the end is riveting, edge of the seat stuff!
And the denouement … first class!
If you love an intelligent thriller that keeps you guessing right to the last page, then this is the book for you.
Wholly recommended!
June 9, 2024
We imagine the life of a celebrity actor is glamorous, but it's sending Zane Osborne over the edge. As a method actor, he immerses himself in his characters. Now, playing a rich adulterer and serial killer in a TV series, he constantly hears his character's voice, tempting him to do the unthinkable.
Is his mental fragility the result of his craft, childhood abuse or the pills he pops to deal with stress? His wife, Lilja, tries to unpack his problems but is also massively hurt by his actions. And with both of the pair using every digital means possible to spy on each other, mistrust, tension and fear drives a further wedge between them.
Not all of the twists in this carefully plotted novel are believable, but it is a page-turning and thought-provoking read.
Is his mental fragility the result of his craft, childhood abuse or the pills he pops to deal with stress? His wife, Lilja, tries to unpack his problems but is also massively hurt by his actions. And with both of the pair using every digital means possible to spy on each other, mistrust, tension and fear drives a further wedge between them.
Not all of the twists in this carefully plotted novel are believable, but it is a page-turning and thought-provoking read.
June 12, 2024
I quite enjoyed this one. I found it to be a good read and entertaining. I enjoyed the dual point of view of Zane and his wife Lilja . It was a great way to really get to know what made each of them tick. Zane‘s mental health battles as he struggled to keep from being completely absorbed by his TV character were interesting . He wasn’t a nice person anyway. I found him very self obsessed and he pretty much did what he wanted not caring about his family. I also found Lilja rather strange in the way she was always spying on Zane by sneaking around and having spy cameras. They were just a really odd pair of characters. There were plenty of twists and turns to keep me engaged and flicking through the pages. I will definitely be looking for more books by this author to read in the future.
June 10, 2024
If you’re looking for a book that will mess with your mind then add Play Him Play Her to your tbr.
Zane is a method actor and has taken his latest role to heart living out the character in real life. Lilja is Zane’s wife and she’s been noticing a change in Zane for awhile and she’s convinced he’s having an affair with his assistant.
As the story unfolds you are treated to both Lilja and Zane’s POV and the mess that Zane’s latest role has put them in. This rollercoaster will have you questioning the sanity of each character and wondering whose side you should believe.
Thank you @lovebookstours for this eARC and a spot on the book tour.
Zane is a method actor and has taken his latest role to heart living out the character in real life. Lilja is Zane’s wife and she’s been noticing a change in Zane for awhile and she’s convinced he’s having an affair with his assistant.
As the story unfolds you are treated to both Lilja and Zane’s POV and the mess that Zane’s latest role has put them in. This rollercoaster will have you questioning the sanity of each character and wondering whose side you should believe.
Thank you @lovebookstours for this eARC and a spot on the book tour.
June 14, 2024
I enjoyed this twisty and twisted thriller that kept me turning pages until the end. Told from the points of view of both Zane and Lilja his wife, it was interesting seeing each through the others eyes. I do like a duel narrative. Neither were particularly likeable, Zane was self centred and so was Lilja in her own way. Neither seemed to consider the other. There is a third voice in this novel, Ethan Holloway, the character that Zane is playing. An adulterer and a serial killer, his voice haunts Zane as he sinks deeper into the character through his obsession with method acting.
This is an original and well written psychological thriller that was full of surprises right till the end.
This is an original and well written psychological thriller that was full of surprises right till the end.
September 15, 2024
As the author, I’ve read and edited this book a gazillion times and absolutely LOVE this series. This is book 1 and book 2 is in the works for next year.
If you love these tropes: high stakes, dual points of view, husband and wife, method actor, character takeover, celebrity thriller, revenge, missing person, love triangle, lovers to enemies, tension and an impossible twist, then you’ll love Play Him Play Her.
It’s been my favorite book to write by far, and I’m SO EXCITED for you to read it!
Thank you to all the amazing reviewers who have given Play Him Play Her high stars. You are the special readers I write these books for. ♥️
If you love these tropes: high stakes, dual points of view, husband and wife, method actor, character takeover, celebrity thriller, revenge, missing person, love triangle, lovers to enemies, tension and an impossible twist, then you’ll love Play Him Play Her.
It’s been my favorite book to write by far, and I’m SO EXCITED for you to read it!
Thank you to all the amazing reviewers who have given Play Him Play Her high stars. You are the special readers I write these books for. ♥️
May 28, 2024
Zane Obourne is a husband & father but most of all an actor who likes to live and feel his characters. His wife Lilja is convinced that he is having an affair with his Personal Assistant Nic. Nic becomes obsessed and is convinced that Zane will leave his wife for her, she secretly takes photos of them which Lilja finds. When Nic is reported missing by her flatmate and her car turns up on a beach what has actually happened and who is responsible. There are plenty of twists and turns in this book.
June 11, 2024
Well I do not know where to start with this review. What a rollercoaster of a story… with quite a complex plot.
I enjoyed reading this novel and loved the twist - it was very well done by the author and unexpected.
The characters were well created and I could imagine them as real people. I particularly like Lilja as I felt I could connect with her and relate.
Play Him Play Her is the first book I have read by this author but i am definitely adding Claire’s other books to my never ending TBR.
This book is for any psychological thriller loving reader!
I enjoyed reading this novel and loved the twist - it was very well done by the author and unexpected.
The characters were well created and I could imagine them as real people. I particularly like Lilja as I felt I could connect with her and relate.
Play Him Play Her is the first book I have read by this author but i am definitely adding Claire’s other books to my never ending TBR.
This book is for any psychological thriller loving reader!
June 11, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed this uniquely weird and wonderful story line!
Told through a dual POV - Lilja and Zane. It was so good to read each of their inner thoughts and it really highlighted their personalities. They were both quite strange people and made many questionable choices.
I liked the trending feeds and the community responses to the hashtags. Also I really enjoyed reading the scripts and would totally watch this TV show!
Jam packed full of twists, turns and drama! I was all for it! Highly recommend.
Told through a dual POV - Lilja and Zane. It was so good to read each of their inner thoughts and it really highlighted their personalities. They were both quite strange people and made many questionable choices.
I liked the trending feeds and the community responses to the hashtags. Also I really enjoyed reading the scripts and would totally watch this TV show!
Jam packed full of twists, turns and drama! I was all for it! Highly recommend.
June 16, 2024
Zane is a method actor who is playing a plastic surgeon/murderer on a TV show. His wife, Lilja (love this name!) is mistrustful of her husband and unhappy with their marriage. Because of Zane’s fame, Lilja cannot be the chef she wants to be. All this brings a lot of tension into the household.
The most disturbing part of the book for me was Zane method acting with a murderer. He really gets in his head and is not something you want to read at night. I liked the way the book incorporated scenes from the TV script and how at the end of each chapter, online commenters added to the story.
The most disturbing part of the book for me was Zane method acting with a murderer. He really gets in his head and is not something you want to read at night. I liked the way the book incorporated scenes from the TV script and how at the end of each chapter, online commenters added to the story.
November 18, 2025
Not sure how I’ve not read anything by this author before but that’s something I will be rectifying very soon.
This was a very clever plot and although it may not have started as fast paced as some of this genre it certainly built as the book progressed along with the suspense and twists.
A read that kept me guessing but also kept me hooked I stayed up very late reading as I needed to finish to see what happened, I was not disappointed!
An excellent read and quite creepy at times too.
Really looking forward to book 2 now 😊
This was a very clever plot and although it may not have started as fast paced as some of this genre it certainly built as the book progressed along with the suspense and twists.
A read that kept me guessing but also kept me hooked I stayed up very late reading as I needed to finish to see what happened, I was not disappointed!
An excellent read and quite creepy at times too.
Really looking forward to book 2 now 😊
June 16, 2024
This book totally messed with my brain, I never knew what was going to happen next. And to be totally honest, I'm not 100% sure what happened, I might have to reread!
The dual POV in this novel, between the husband and wife, really makes you want to read more. I found myself questioning them both throughout this book, trying to decide who was sane and who to believe. I think they both had moments of insanity throughout, and their relationship was definitely toxic.
The dual POV in this novel, between the husband and wife, really makes you want to read more. I found myself questioning them both throughout this book, trying to decide who was sane and who to believe. I think they both had moments of insanity throughout, and their relationship was definitely toxic.
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