Book Review: When No One Is Watching by Aylssa Cole

Book Reviews

Jan 5

Sydney Green has lived in Gifford Place with her mother since she was a kid. With the neighborhood gradually changing before her eyes, Sydney finds herself at odds with some of the new residents. Theo is a new resident of Gifford Place. Theo attempts to acclimate himself with his new residence and appreciates its charm even though his property could use some tune-ups, itself and much to the distain of his girlfriend.

Be it because he kind of fancies her or because he wants to learn more about his new neighborhood, Theo agrees to assist Sydney with developing a more historically accurate Gifford Place tour. What begins to unfold is the discovery of a sinister plan that could jeopardize the neighborhood as Sydney once knew it to be.

If this book were to be turned into a movie, Jordan Peele would serve as the writer and director as this fits right into his genre of work. The details applied to making the gentrification of this once tranquil and neighborly black community suspenseful was masterful. Though satirical and dramatic, Alyssa Cole brings truths associated with the overtake of well established communities and neighborhoods at the hands of those that give their rich history little, if any, consideration or credence.

I had a hard time putting this one down once I got to the last 150 or so pages. I think this is a perfect introduction to the cooler months.

Buy It

Have you already read this? Leave a comment of your thoughts!

-MLW-