Her Own Devices by Geoffrey Dutton
In Her Own Devices (Guernica Editions) by Geoffrey Dutton, readers are transported to the bustling streets of Piraeus, Greece, where danger lurks in the shadows, and redemption is something of which people only dream. The plot centers around Swiss ex-pat Anna Burmeister, haunted by a tumultuous past of activism, who finds herself thrust into the heart of darkness after witnessing a chilling kidnapping.
With her energetic five-year-old son by her side, Anna embarks on a relentless quest to dismantle the shadowy network responsible for the heinous crime. Armed with homemade surveillance devices and aided by a motley crew of allies, she navigates the treacherous underworld of Piraeus with unwavering determination.
Rich, Complex Characters
Central to the story is the presence of an ethereal narrator, the spirit of the boy’s late father, who watches over the unfolding events with a mix of concern and longing. Denied entry to Paradise, he serves as a spectral observer, yearning to reunite with his estranged family and intervene in the mortal realm. Yet, restricted by his lack of agency, he remains a poignant figure, cursed to do no more than witness the chaos below.
The characters are richly drawn, each grappling with their own demons and motivations. From the swaggering perpetrators of the crime to the conflicted cop ensnared in a web of corruption, every individual is painted with shades of gray, blurring the lines between heroism and villainy. It’s within this moral ambiguity that the true strength of the narrative lies, challenging readers to confront the complexities of human nature and tearing down conventional notions of right and wrong.
As the plot unfolds, tensions escalate to a crescendo, culminating in a gripping showdown between the forces of good and evil. In a climactic confrontation orchestrated by a daring flash mob, Anna faces her adversaries head-on, risking everything in a bid to protect her son and seek justice for the innocent.
Amidst the chaos and uncertainty that permeate the plot, moments of grace and humanity emerge. In the most unlikely of places, our protagonist discovers unexpected allies and finds solace in the bonds of friendship. These fleeting moments of connection serve as a reminder that no matter how bleak things seem, hope can be found in the kindness of strangers and the resilience of the human spirit.
Resilience and Camaraderie
Her Own Devices offers a poignant message of resilience and camaraderie. Through adversity, bonds are forged and alliances tested, revealing the true value of loyalty and friendship. It’s a testament to the enduring power of community, proving that there is always hope to be found.
This book is a masterful tale that transcends genres, seamlessly blending mystery, thriller, and family drama into a gripping narrative that will leave readers enthralled. It’s more than just a story; it’s a journey into the depths of the human soul, where light and shadow converge to show readers that nothing is ever quite so simple as good and evil. Fans of any genre will not regret picking up this book.
About Geoffrey Dutton:
Geoffrey Dutton writes compelling stories about people he’s never met in places he’s never visited. He authored the award-winning conspiracy thriller Turkey Shoot, parts of which Her Own Devices movingly recapitulates. He lives west of Boston, where, besides writing, he forages for edible mushrooms and serves them to his trusting family.
