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A review by eve_reads
When No One Is Watching by Alyssa Cole
adventurous
dark
emotional
informative
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
Overall Thoughts:
⁕ I appreciate how this book explores gentrification in the historical context of colonization. I learned a lot about the history of NYC from it.
⁕ Cole expertly juxtaposes a culture of collective care and mutual aid with one that is ruled by white supremacy and individualism. It forced me as the reader to explore the ways in which my own community relationships either perpetuate harm or foster well-being.
⁕ For a thriller, it was a very slow build. The plot development and most the of major story events occur in the last 100 pages.
⁕ Both Sydney and Theo have a reveal/secret that is central to their character development, but I felt that only Sydney’s was really backed up by the text. The information introduced about Theo came out of the blue and wasn’t believable.
To read my full review, visit: https://evereads.online/
For regular book-related content, follow my Instagram account: @eve_reads
⁕ I appreciate how this book explores gentrification in the historical context of colonization. I learned a lot about the history of NYC from it.
⁕ Cole expertly juxtaposes a culture of collective care and mutual aid with one that is ruled by white supremacy and individualism. It forced me as the reader to explore the ways in which my own community relationships either perpetuate harm or foster well-being.
⁕ For a thriller, it was a very slow build. The plot development and most the of major story events occur in the last 100 pages.
⁕ Both Sydney and Theo have a reveal/secret that is central to their character development, but I felt that only Sydney’s was really backed up by the text. The information introduced about Theo came out of the blue and wasn’t believable.
To read my full review, visit: https://evereads.online/
For regular book-related content, follow my Instagram account: @eve_reads
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Classism, Gore, Gun violence, Police brutality, and Mental illness
Moderate: Sexual content and Cursing