Having initially picked up this book during the debut of the first season of “You” on Netflix, I decided to embark on reading the entire series with the recent release of the fourth book and fourth season.

In comparison to the show, I found Joe in the book to be even more unsettling. The absence of other narrations, exclusive to Joe’s perspective, amplifies the creepiness. Despite the discomfort stemming from his extreme actions and obsessions, many readers resonate with Joe’s inner narration on society.
The book offers a humorous yet scathing commentary on the unlikeable side characters, shedding light on their lack of self-awareness regarding the struggles of the underprivileged.

The book skillfully explores how the audience can be influenced by Joe’s distorted views on love. Beck, as a love interest, is portrayed as deeply flawed, with Joe staunchly defending her despite her evident shortcomings. Throughout the story, Beck consistently lies to Joe, pretending to be sick or busy studying when, in reality, she is betraying him with her therapist. Joe labels her as an “attention loving whore,” a description echoed by Beck herself.
Adding to the complexity, Beck fabricates details about her life, falsely claiming her father is dead when he is infact alive.
These revelations make it difficult for readers to sympathize with Beck, as well as other characters like Peach and Benji, when they meet their unfortunate fate at Joe’s hands.

I’m about to start the second book, excited to meet Love as Joe’s new love interest. She’s portrayed as superior to Joe in various ways and adds a relatable element for women. Looking forward to it!

Quotes

“You sneeze, loudly, and I imagine how loud you are when you climax.” (page 2)

“…thank god that when I pull a phone out of my pocket it’s mine and not yours.” (page 44)

“If she were a dog, shooting her would be the humane thing to do.” (page 116)

By Sasha Harding