A review by its_kievan
The Nobody People by Bob Proehl

challenging dark emotional sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• 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

3.5

Proehl clearly had a very specific plot in mind, but unfortunately that plot gets in the way of all the good bits. Compelling, well-written characters will make completely nonsensical decisions (Fahima

giving inhibitor collars to the US government

comes to mind), and thoughtful mediations on the trappings of power and prejudice are put on hold in order to play out a specific narrative that just doesn't ring true. The idea of superpowers as an allegory for civil rights is a compelling (and popular) one, but Proehl just doesn't stick the landing.