A review by timetotalkbeauty
Welcome to West Street by Nicole Trope

dark mysterious sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

Nicole Trope’s Welcome to West Street is a gripping exploration of survival, secrets, and the illusions of safety behind suburban doors.
The story follows Amanda, a mother who has fled an abusive relationship with her two children, hoping to start anew in a seemingly quiet neighbourhood. However, her son Jordan, grappling with the upheaval and loss of his former life, directs his anger toward her in ways that are both heartbreaking and unsettling.
Told through multiple first-person perspectives, the narrative provides an intimate view into not only Amanda's struggles but also the hidden lives of the other West Street residents. Each character is layered and distinct, their flaws making them all the more compelling. While not every character is traditionally likeable, their complexity adds depth to the unfolding story.
The tension builds steadily, with the medium-paced plot allowing for a slow unraveling of the dark undercurrents beneath West Street’s friendly facade. The portrayal of Jordan is particularly chilling; his verbal aggression towards Amanda reflects the cycle of abuse he has witnessed, raising disturbing questions about the legacy of trauma. Yet, chillingly, Jordan is not the most dangerous secret lurking in the neighborhood.
Taryn Ryan’s narration captures the emotional intensity of the story, especially in the more volatile moments, enhancing the overall atmosphere of unease. Welcome to West Street is a thought-provoking and unsettling read that keeps you hooked, and it’s a strong reminder that even the most ordinary places can hide extraordinary darkness. Fans of psychological dramas and domestic thrillers will find much to appreciate here, in this emotional, character-driven suspense story.

The audiobook narration is deftly handled by Taryn Ryan, who brings the characters to life, and an air of tension to proceedings.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the advanced copy.
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