A review by illtakethenightshiftx
The Eyes Are the Best Part by Monika Kim

dark tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the e-ARC! (Out June 25, 2024)

If you like stories of women on a downward spiral, The Eyes Are the Best Part is for you! 

This novel was fast, punchy, and disturbing. I found Ji-won’s character to be a bit one-note, but following her internal monologue was a trip. I would’ve loved to see more interactions between her and her sister and Ji-won and Alexis. The Alexis plot line felt like it could’ve been fleshed out a bit more and I also wanted to see more of her! 

The dream sequences were engrossing (and gross!) and added to the feeling of uncertainty between what was real and what wasn’t. The body horror elements were well-placed and not overused for shock factor - every scene was there for a reason.

I’ve met many Geoffreys and Georges over the years and I know I’ll continue to meet them. As a woman who grew up in a post-“stranger danger” and Law & Order world, hyper-vigilance, fear, and heightened awareness of my surroundings was engrained in me from a young age. I can really emphasize with Ji-won’s experiences, specifically with Geoffrey, in that respect and it felt validating to see experiences similar to my own on the page.

I can definitely see this book blowing up when it comes out next year!!
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