A review by xwritingstoriesx
The Taking of Jake Livingston by Ryan Douglass

dark emotional mysterious reflective 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? Yes

3.75

3.75 stars! This book really tackles some darker themes from molestation and child abuse to bullying and gun violence. It was so interesting to read the perspective of a medium. I haven't come across mediumship in my reading until this point so it was something new. I enjoyed the dual perspectives between the antagonist and the protagonist as we figure out the backstory and piece it all together. The gay representation was also really great, I liked the juxtaposition of their puppy love vs the themes above, it allowed me to process everything and have a bit of a breather.
I do wish we'd gotten a scene with Sawyer and his family at the end. Sawyer was a villain, without a doubt, but I wanted his story to end with closure and see him feel repentance/remorse for his actions.
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