A review by scarletshore
Look Closer by David Ellis

challenging dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

"Look Closer," aptly named, demands your meticulous attention to every detail within its pages. Missing even one element might lead you to misinterpret the ending. The book is filled with surprises and twists, continually defying expectations. Just when I believed I had the entire story figured out, the book gave me more surprises.

Each chapter offers different perspectives, presenting the narrative through the eyes of Simon, Vicky, Christian, and Jane. However, this multiple viewpoint approach doesn't lead to confusion. The book's concept is truly mind-blowing, providing a deep reading experience more akin to a high-quality crime novel than a typical thriller.

Initially, I found some repetitive parts uncomfortable, but I later realized that this repetition serves as a crucial purpose—prompting readers to stay vigilant about unfolding details. The deeper you dive into the story, the clearer it becomes that overlooking even a detail or two could drastically change your comprehension.

The book subtly reflects on how legal systems operate in many countries—no proof, no arrest. It highlights the unsettling reality where certain suspects roam freely due to lack of evidence. The only drawback I found is the inclusion of some unnecessary elements, including explicit scenes. Still, the book is worth reading!