A review by karina_dreamsinwords
We Could Be Rats by Emily Austin

dark emotional funny reflective sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

What seemed to be a very surface level book at first actually turned out to be a pretty heavy multilayered story about identity and the complexities of growing up. 

The first chunk of the story features an epistolary format of many suicide notes written by one of the sisters this book follows, Sigrid. We get to understand the chaos within her brain, her story of self and why she decides to follow through. 

Then we switch perspectives and get personal with her sister, Margit. She grapples with the aftermath of Sigrid’s choice and how that affects someone’s everyday life. 

I don’t want to say too much because it’s a shorter read but the twist in here caught me off guard and shocked me more than recent thrillers I’ve read. 

Overall I thought this quirky and dark (but light in tone) novel was a pleasant surprise that had me relating to some of the things discussed. I had a few existential moments as a result but that speaks to the authors talents. I will definitely be picking up more from Austin in the future!
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