LOOK AWAY: The Book for the Morbidly Curious

by Julian Font

“DEATH IS IN THE BUILDING!” the show host announces. “And it’s prepared to take the life of tonight’s winner in exchange for bettering the lives of others.”

NORA FICTUS is a showrunner for Mendax Productions, the most powerful television network in the world. Having grown up fascinated by death and in pursuit of fame, she creates, "Greater Good," a T.V. show for the morbidly curious based on an idea gifted to her by Death itself.

JOSEPH VERITA is a criminal lawyer with skeletons in his closet. Living with life-deprecating struggles, he finds himself low on cash, seeking the will to live with Death at his front door.

In this heart-wrenching and twisted thriller, Joseph and Nora will act as soldiers in the spiritual war between good and evil. They will do their duty to resist or take part in Death's bidding, with the minds of the world being influenced by their every move.

The choice is yours... Will you tune in? Or will you look away?


WARNING!
*This dual P.O.V. thriller novel is meant for readers aged 18 and above.
[READER DISCRETION ADVISED]

Paperback

Published January 6, 2024

About the author

Julian Font is a thrill-seeking author with a passion for living life through the eyes of his characters. While growing up composing music, Julian became intrigued by the simple pleasures that come with the pursuit of fame and romance, which has heavily influenced his work as an author.

Julian Font dives into fiction writing headfirst, creating thrilling and emotional experiences in his novels, "NIGHT AFTER NIGHT," "WRITE MY WRONGS," "LOOK AWAY," and "SOMEDAY SOON."

Reviews

[Kelsey Noah · Rating 1 out of 5]

Oh piss off, 50% in for this entire book to be Christian propaganda?

An atheist being miraculously converted by a pastor at a waffle house within 10 minutes?

DNF with the biggest eye-roll

[Aryah Campbell · Rating 1 out of 5]

found this book on tik tok, the author promised twists and turns, drama, mystery… and all i got was jesus propaganda 🤦🏼‍♀️ big fat 0 from me dawg. sorry not sorry.

[ashlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

WARNING: Your mental health matters. Review the trigger list below before deciding to continue. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – Call 800-273-8255

While this isn’t my usual genre, this story was…different, intense, and surprisingly really good. It’s incredibly well-written, descriptive, and fast-paced - one of those reads that keeps you flipping pages because you have to know what happens next.

It’s thought-provoking in a way that makes you question the lines between good and evil. I also loved the unique format: the switch between prose and TV-script style, woven with various character POVs, added so much depth.

If you’re into psychological thrillers that push boundaries and make you think, I highly recommend this one.

✨ T r o p e s + T r i g g e r s ✨
Suicide | Death
Mention of rape, drug use, financial issues
Multiple POV
Characters Dealing with Depression
Fascination with Death
Psychological Thriller
Good vs. Evil
Child Bullying
Media Manipulation

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Font delivers another very unique story. By mixing prose with scripts and graphics, the author plays on the media to warn about the dangers of it. This thriller depicts the
dichotomy between Good and Evil which are respectively embodied by the two main characters Joseph and Nora. You are given the two sides of the coin, and it is up to you to choose which one you will pick. Will you tune in or look away?
 
Embark in a journey that will make you question your moral compass and the very essence of life in general. Tag along as this spiritual novel enlightens you on the fragile line between right and wrong, the pursuit and ephemerality of fame, the control the entertainment industry wields on people, and the valuable key lesson that YOU WERE BORN TO LIVE.
 
I had a soft spot for Joseph’s character. The complexity of his character is what makes the beauty of it. Broken, scarred, battered, and bruised, he reluctantly finds himself fighting a war he didn’t ask for, while finding his true calling and a second chance at life in the process.

 

[Sam Schultz · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a thought provoking thriller that explores the ethics and dangers of media manipulation with a Black Mirror tone. The idea itself was very interesting and I think good versus evil was portrayed well through both POVs. I thought the story was well written and kept me engaged, but the moral messages felt a little heavy handed.

[Alexsis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! I am so glad I came across this book and gave it a chance. It kept me hooked throughout the whole book. There are so many quotes throughout it that stuck with me. I found myself crying at some points, some parts I was angry with the characters, others I was rooting for them.

I love when a book makes me feel all sorts of emotions and this one did not disappoint. Honestly was so well written and each scene had a place in the book. It makes you think about a lot and I love that.

I think this is my new favorite book and will definitely be a top 10 for 2025!

Definitely do look into the triggers! This book covers some hard topics and can be a lot.

[Emily · Rating 2 out of 5]

Yikes. I knew the premise was going to be dark, but it ended up being worse than I anticipated. On top of that, dialogue was corny and oddly religious.

[Chloe Neumann · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s giving Black Mirror vibes, with a more meaningful message.

[Benny Blanco · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a powerful read this was! Julian Font has progressed to an all-star author. He has given us stories that have uncomfortable topics and themes. This story has elements of "Hunger Games," "Black Mirror," and "Squid Games," but he has combined them into a compelling story of "life." Both Nora and Joesph have good and bad qualities. They are not black and white; you might feel that with Nora's POVs, but she is profoundly complex and steals this book. I wish I could spend more time with this cast, especially a shout-out to BizKit!

[Khyla Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

“𝐈 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐆𝐨𝐨𝐝.”

What if your su*cide didn’t have to be for nothing? What if you had the chance to provide your loved ones with enough money to set them up for life by taking your own life on broadcasted television?

This thought-provoking psychological thriller hit all the marks. It was fast-paced, attention-grabbing, and it kept me hooked all the way throughout.

It’s a dual POV between a lowly criminal defense lawyer, Joseph, and the creator of a twisted game show, Nora.
There’s good, and there’s evil. There’s life, and there’s death.
There are many parallels in this book, but one stands most profoundly: while Joseph and Nora live opposite lives, Death whispers to them both.. and it waits for no one.

There are many heavy-hitting themes here and with the state of our current political climate *cough cough* I hope it leaves you curious. The media manipulation and suicide glamorization is what the book is centered on, and the author portrayed it fantastically with theatrical deaths and exposure to heavy topics like drug ab*se, PTSD, r*pe, etc.

This book is, indeed, for the morbidly curious.
4.5 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

[David Woodley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will tell no lies when I tell you I was nervous going into this one due to the nature of the book… however, Julian sets it up nicely with trigger warnings, a dedication and a warning that sets the tone, that I want you to keep in mind as you go so that you focus on the right thing!

I loved characters, I hate characters, I found myself upset for characters, that I didnt expect to be upset for. I turned one page and slammed the book down and proclaimed that I hated the author, in all the best ways possible !

As a fan of quotes and an advocate for mental health, this book had a lot that I loved! The things that I was worried about, didnt phase me as I viewed it as a symbolic reference ( not a physical act ) to society praying on the poor and making themselves feel better because they dont have it as bad as others, like a support group.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ but I highly recommend this book finds you when the time is right, not the other way around!

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Riveting Journey of Faith and Character Growth: Look Away by Julian Font

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Julian Font's "Look Away" is an exquisite tapestry woven with intricate threads of faith, character development, and immersive storytelling. From the very first page, Font's masterful prose sweeps readers into a world where the struggles and triumphs of his characters feel vividly real.

One of the most captivating aspects of "Look Away" is the nuanced development of its protagonists, Nora and Joseph. As they navigate the complexities of life, Font skillfully unveils layers of their personalities, allowing readers to witness their growth, vulnerabilities, and strengths. Nora and Joseph leap off the pages as relatable individuals, their journeys resonating deeply with readers long after the final chapter.

Font's incorporation of faith into the narrative is both seamless and profound. Rather than preaching or imposing beliefs, he delicately weaves themes of spirituality into the fabric of the story, inviting readers to contemplate life's deeper questions alongside the characters. Whether grappling with doubt, finding solace in prayer, or experiencing moments of profound revelation, the exploration of faith in "Look Away" adds a rich layer of depth to the narrative.

Furthermore, Font's writing style is nothing short of captivating. With a fast-paced rhythm that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, each scene unfolds with a sense of urgency and intensity. From heart-pounding action sequences to quiet moments of introspection, Font effortlessly balances pacing, ensuring that readers remain fully immersed in the world he has created.

In conclusion, "Look Away" is a six-star (& beyond!) masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of genre. Julian Font's ability to craft compelling characters, seamlessly integrate themes of faith, and maintain a riveting pace sets this novel apart. For anyone seeking a captivating read that lingers in the heart and mind long after the final page, "Look Away" is an absolute must-read.

[Kara Silberzahn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite books I read this year simply because it was so different. The premise of having a show air where people are killing themselves is absolutely nuts. There were so many twists and turns among the whole book that keeps you involved and not wanting to stop reading it. You get attached to Joseph and his story. You also watch Nora go from a “nobody” to absolutely high on power in a drastic way. It was such a crazy ride from start to end. It highlights the good vs evil in the world& makes you ponder which side these characters are on. I loved the use of news articles, mixed media is my absolute fave. I will say however the lil side romance I feel was not necessary for the plot line , she was also 10 years younger and felt a bit odd. Other then that I loved this book start to end✨

[Neeq · Rating 5 out of 5]

I decided to read Look Away as my first book from yours truly and my oh my, i was hooked from the beginning sentences.

It is so messed up (not that there were no trigger warnings/ warnings given); makes you think about reality. and i’m here for all the disturbing and unpleasantness this story holds. Put that aside, i’m also here for the growth of the character(s) (Joseph — let’s be real i despise Nora, maybe at first….); the struggles, guilt and horror these ppl went through.. i can empathize.. the buildup is soooo good!

generally very impressed with the idea and the story-telling; it’s very well written that i want more. You, sir, are brilliant! this book is giving me life.

Between Good V Evil, Good will always win! (That’s all i can say without spoilers)

[Chyna Roberts · Rating 2 out of 5]

***SPOILERS

Ok… here’s my issue. I enjoyed the first half of the book.. the ending seems anticlimactic.. I’m supposed to believe that NORA.. who was the most unlikable character ever.. goes to her old church has ONE conversation then decides “let me preform my greater good” What??? And i wasn’t expecting the book to be as religious as it ended up being… like what was the point of everything that transpired in the first half of the book. And she changes her mindset after talking to.. (the main character forgot his damn name already) and not Ryan??

Like she has a WHOLE breakdown at that party to less than a week later switching teams.. because she saw the light. I have been swindled tik tok.. where were the twists?? The turns??

2.5 stars.. maybe

Update: when (the main character.. again forgot his name already) hooks up with Ava is right after his “BEST” Friend dies??? Please.

[Denise · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m not too sure what I was expecting, but it wasn’t this lol. The concept of this book is what drew me in - a psychological thriller based on a TV show where people are unaliving themselves on national television?! Count me in. However, this book didn’t feel like a thriller. It felt more like a “find the positive in a bad situation” book… which is fine…….. but don’t market it as a psychological thriller when it isn’t. It was a let down for sure lol. Two stars bc I kept reading - the writing was fine - but I was disappointed.

[Jacqueline Blue · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was the first book I have read by this author and it absolutely won't be my last!! WOW...I am so blown away by this story. Easily 5 stars!!! I went into it somewhat blind...mainly only knowing the premise of the whole game show aspect dealing with morbid curiosity. But this book ended up being SO much more and really opened my eyes. If you have ever doubted your reason for living or have ever contemplated death as the easy way out...this book is for you

[Brice Fingers · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book is easily one of the biggest cop outs a writer can make. The way it is written makes it seem as though people who aren’t religious in any capacity have no morals and therefore aren’t living life correctly. It was such a bait and switch style of a book that I had to DNF it. Such a good idea but terrible execution, especially when the last half of the book is based around this moral high ground of having Jesus in your life. Like bro stop shoving it down our throats.

[Melanie · Rating 1 out of 5]

The writing was one dimensional, and not very good in my opinion. Every character was annoying, and I did not care about them at all. You can definitely tell the fmc was written by a man. I’m not sure why there was smut in this??? and the nanny trope is cliché and gives me the ick. The story had great potential, but was not carried out well and was incredibly boring.

[Cristy Taveras · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐
This was a really good book. Its like a episode of Black Mirror and I can said it was amazing!!!! I saw the author on TiKTok and that is why I buyed the book. Really great!!!

[Daysha Cunningham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I DEVOURED this in a span of 6 hours!! I did his audio on YouTube and book on KU it was the perfect immersive read! Definitely would recommend!

[Lillian Hinebaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOWZA.

[Madelyn Pritchett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well done! Lots of unexpected things happened that kept me on the edge of my seat. The pacing was great, never a dull moment. And the overall message was wonderful. Highly recommend!

[Mike Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent book. The ending was kind of meh.

[Casey · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 ⭐️ Interesting premise but the religion and moral messaging of it all got to be a lot.