A review by lilanye
Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley

dark tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? N/A
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

Nightcrawling tells the story of Kiara, a 17-year-old Black teenager; how she ends up working as a sex worker and then becomes a victim of a sex trafficking ring of the local police. 

 

The fact that Kiara is rendered powerless and voiceless by the society comes through the narration and events of the book masterfully. 

 

Nightcrawling is a great depiction of the failing of the (American) justice system, the social injustice of the country and also of generational trauma. 

 

I really liked the narrative voice of Kiara. She felt like a real person. Her age was beautifully integrated in the story also by her naiviety in not understanding how serious the situation had become. 

 

However, I felt that some parts were a little detached. Kiara’s love for Alejandra and Trevor for example didn’t come through to me as emotion. It was only text, more tell than show. 

 

Overall this is a very impactful book, with real characters and beautiful narration.