Brandi Reeds's "Third Party"

Brandi Reeds is a critically acclaimed author whose novel of psychological suspense, Trespassing, was an Amazon Charts bestseller. She also writes young adult novels under the pseudonym Sasha Dawn, whose Blink garnered an Edgar nomination. Her debut psychological thriller, Oblivion, was chosen as one of the New York Public Library’s Best Books for Teens, recommended by the School Library Journal, endorsed by the American Library Association, and selected by the 2016 Illinois Reading Council as a featured book. Reeds earned her BA in history and English from Northern Illinois University, followed by an MA in writing from Seton Hill University. When not working on her next book, she works as a kitchen design consultant and cabinetry specialist. She’s also an avid traveler, reader, and dance enthusiast. A Chicago native, Reeds currently lives in the northern suburbs with her husband, daughters, and puppies.

In Reeds's new novel, Third Party:

The apparent suicide of a beautiful aspiring law student unites two strangers, connected only by their tangled suspicions: that nothing about Margaux Stritch’s tragic end is what it looks like.

Firefighter Jessica Blythe is courageously making her mark in the male-dominated Chicago Fire Department while navigating a complicated relationship with a detective. A first responder to the crime scene, Jessica has a professional duty to Margaux. Then there’s Kirsten Holloway, a wife and mother pulling herself together after an emotional breakdown. But her husband’s infidelity has left her in a place full of mistrust and fear. Her dreaded curiosity about Margaux’s death has become very personal.

Here the author dreamcasts an adaptation of Third Party:

What an interesting concept! I don’t picture actors in my head when I write, and frankly, this was more difficult than I thought it would be. However…

Kate Beckinsale—a master in innocence and affirmation—would be a perfect for Kirsten. For Kirsten’s husband, Ian, I’d cast Ben Affleck—I would love to see Ben’s The Town meets upper class America. His curt delivery and a hint of over-confidence (think Good Will Hunting: “Retaaaaainer!”) would be an ideal fit for Ian.

As Margaux, I’d love to cast Dakota Fanning—crazy-talented kid with the skill for emotional layers. Enough said.

As Jessica, my female powerhouse, I’d like to see Brie Larson or Scarlett Johansson—we need a little seduction meets superhero here. (Note, I’m told each of these women recently played superheroes. I did not realize that when I cast them…I live under a rock. If it isn’t Deadpool, and it’s a superhero movie, I haven’t seen it.)

I can see Decker as Tom Hardy or Michael B. Jordan. Vastly different guys, but both would bring a don’t-f**k-with-me edge.

Nat Wolff’s clueless meets in charge—of everything—would be a perfect fit for Kirsten’s son, Patrick. Her daughter, Quinn, would be Abigail Breslin, who’s been a star since Nim’s Island. Now, let’s watch her be the voice of reason for an entire generation of her predecessors!

Directed by: Kelly Reichardt.

Visit Brandi Reeds's website.

--Marshal Zeringue