A review by bourbon_bookworm
We Could Be Rats by Emily Austin

dark emotional funny reflective sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Does Noah Kahan's song, Call Your Mom, resonate with you? 
What about Isabel Pless's song, Eldest Daughter?
If you answered "yes" then you’re likely to find something profoundly relatable in this book.

This book hits the sweet spot between laughter and heartache, offering a raw, honest portrayal of family dynamics, personal growth, and the quiet, often messy, emotional battles that shape who we are. At its core, We Could Be Rats is about two sisters—each struggling in their own way with personal and family expectations, and navigating the complexities of their relationship with one another. 
I listened to the audiobook version of this novel and felt the format added an extra layer of depth. The narrator’s delivery enhanced the emotional weight of the story, making it even more heartbreaking and ultimately more impactful. The pacing of the book and structure felt just right. Austin did a fantastic job highlighting the nuanced relationships we have with the people closest to us, especially family. It’s a reminder that we’re all a little broken, a little lost, but somehow still deeply human, trying to make sense of it all. Whether you’re laughing at a snarky comment or wiping away a tear from a painful realization, Austin masterfully captures these emotional extremes.

TW: Suicide, Sexual Assault, Drug Abuse 
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