Foe is an incredibly intriguing sci-fi-esque novel with a ton of layers, and I really enjoyed peeling those layers back. Reid has a lot to say about long-term relationships, feeling connected to your partner vs. having autonomy, and developing self-determination. I love how both Junior's and Hen's self-determination grows over the novel, each for different reasons. The last 10% of the book is a masterclass in storytelling. This novel has a truly, deliciously satisfying ending.

The middle, however, drags. I'll be 100% honest. I don't mind a book taking place in one location and consisting of primarily dialogue, but I feel like the conversations became repetitive. I can't fault this book that I predicted the twist, but I spent the latter half of my reading time just waiting for the reveal to confirm what I already knew. I felt that

Terrance copying Junior's habits, going to his work, and wearing his clothing

were simply added to be a weak red herring. Those behaviors made no sense in the context of the actual ending.

Additionally, I wish that Reid spent a bit more time world building and describing this not-so-distant future in which the novel takes place.

The lack of farm animals, self-driving cars, and the Installation itself

were the only big hints we received about the nature of this world, but I wanted so much more.

Nonetheless, this book exemplifies why I'm a huge Iain Reid fan. His ability to weave together a unique story that keeps you guessing is marvelous. Like his other novels, Foe is one that will leave you thinking about it, interpreting it, and wanting to discuss it for weeks afterward.