Plot Overview
“Not What She Seems” by Yasmin Angoe is a gripping psychological thriller that brings readers into the turbulent life of Jacinda “Jac” Brodie. Having left her hometown of Brook Haven, South Carolina, as a local pariah at the age of twenty-two, Jac is forced to return due to a family tragedy. Her homecoming is anything but welcome, as she must face her painful past and the whispers that blamed her for her father’s death, the beloved chief of police. With her granddad in the hospital, Jac is compelled to confront both her old demons and a new, sinister presence in town.
Setting and Atmosphere
Brook Haven, a small cliffside town, is brought to life through Angoe’s detailed descriptions. The transformation of the notorious Moor Manor into a quaint country inn by the wealthy newcomer Faye Arden adds an intriguing layer to the setting. The town’s picturesque facade hides dark secrets, creating a tense and foreboding atmosphere that permeates the novel. Angoe skillfully contrasts the town’s charm with the underlying danger that Jac senses.
Character Development
Jac Brodie is a compelling protagonist. Her return to Brook Haven is fraught with emotional turmoil, guilt, and suspicion. Angoe does an excellent job of delving into Jac’s psyche, portraying her as a complex character grappling with her past and the present dangers. Faye Arden, the town’s new benefactor, is equally intriguing. Her seemingly perfect exterior masks a potentially malevolent nature, adding depth and tension to the narrative. The supporting characters, including Jac’s family and townspeople, are well-drawn, contributing to the novel’s rich tapestry.
Themes and Motifs
The novel explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the pursuit of truth. Jac’s journey is not just about uncovering the mysteries of her father’s death and Faye Arden’s true intentions but also about finding redemption and making peace with her past. The theme of perception versus reality is woven throughout the story, as Jac uncovers the hidden truths about her hometown and its inhabitants.
Pacing and Structure
The pacing of “Not What She Seems” is generally well-maintained, with a steady build-up of suspense leading to an explosive climax. The novel’s structure, with its blend of present-day events and flashbacks, keeps readers engaged and provides a comprehensive understanding of Jac’s backstory. While some readers might find the pace slow in the middle sections, the narrative tension and character development keep the story compelling.
Critical Reception
“Not What She Seems” has been praised for its expert blending of fast-paced action, complex characters, and jaw-dropping plot twists. Critics have lauded Angoe’s ability to create a layered mystery infused with family secrets and sharp-edged revenge. The novel’s emotional depth, combined with its high-stakes thriller elements, makes it a standout in the domestic suspense genre. However, some readers have noted that the book’s pacing could have been tighter, particularly in the middle sections.
Overall Impression
“Not What She Seems” is a powerful and electrifying novel that explores the deadly secrets people want to forget and the lengths they will go to keep them buried. Yasmin Angoe’s writing is both intense and evocative, with a knack for creating memorable characters and high-intensity drama. Jac Brodie’s journey is a thrilling rollercoaster that combines psychological suspense with a heartwarming tale of familial redemption. Despite some pacing issues, the novel’s strong character development and gripping plot make it a highly recommended read.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, “Not What She Seems” by Yasmin Angoe is a captivating psychological thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its expertly crafted setting, complex characters, and pulse-pounding suspense, the novel is a testament to Angoe’s storytelling prowess. It’s a must-read for fans of domestic suspense and anyone looking for a thrilling, emotionally resonant story.
