Can’t go wrong with a pitch like “Gossip Girl meets Get Out"

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This is, first and foremost, a fantastic debut. I mean, you can’t go wrong with a pitch like “Gossip Girl meets Get Out.” And seriously, that definition is spot on. Once you really get down to it, this thriller is more so along the lines of dark reveals with some very important themes.

The plot keeps you guessing (although, based on the pitch alone, you can kind of see where this is going) and the writing is very strong--I can’t wait to see what Faridah has in store for us next. Some of the events, as you’re going toward the finale, feel a bit Get-Out-level fantasy, while also touching on some very real issues. It’s a complex story with layers on every level.

The two main characters Chimaka and Devon were expertly crafted, and each worked so well for the book for different reasons. Their personalities clashed with each other and with other characters, but together they make the story fun to follow and intriguing. Plus, I appreciate that both on on-page LGBTQ+, with Devon being gay and Chimaka bi.

Not a full five stars for me, unfortunately, because at times this book was a little slow. I usually like twists and turns and high-stakes action in my thrillers, but the action here was more subdued.

Overall, I highly recommend this just about any reader looking for a compelling thriller that explores complex characters and ideas, as well as racism in the world around us.