I’ve been hearing a ton of buzz about When No One Is Watching by Alyssa Cole, so I couldn’t wait to check it out for myself! It’s a unique thriller that focuses on social issues like systemic racism and gentrification.
A quick synopsis: Sydney Green has a feeling something is amiss in her beloved Brooklyn neighborhood. Her long-time neighbors are moving out at an alarming rate, with realtors breathing down their necks at every turn.
When a new couple moves in across the street, a disturbing series of events is put in motion. But can Sydney trust her judgement, or are her painful memories and sleepless nights catching up with her?
*I received this book for free from the publisher (William Morrow) in exchange for an honest review.
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When No One is Watching by Alyssa Cole: My Thoughts
This book is described as Get Out meets Rear Window, and I think that’s spot-on. It’s fast-paced and twisty, with a thread of romantic suspense and an explosive ending. The beginning started off a little slow, but it picked up soon after! I loved that every character had their own personality, quirks, and baggage.
I don’t think I’ve ever learned so much from a thriller before. It’s an impressive feat for a book to simultaneously be thrilling and action packed, while also managing to educate about history and social issues (like redlining, racism, and gentrification).
Overall, When No One is Watching is entertaining, relevant, and unique. Definitely recommended!
Rating: 4.5/5
Publication date: September 1st, 2020
If you’re looking for more great books to read, check out my most-anticipated book releases for September 2020!
