Review
Thank you to Wednesday Books for an ARC!
The first thing I thought about this book was Sariyah has far more patience than me. Because if I had the annoying ability to know what people needed I would not be nearly as calm as she is. I’d have probably already refused to do anything in life.
I love a good thriller/mystery and Needy Little Things sets up to be a very exciting thriller. While it has a bit of a paranormal aspect, with Ri’s abilities, it also in some ways reminded me very much of When No One is Watching by Alyssa Cole which I really enjoyed. This book touches on similar themes but in different ways.
Sariyah’s story is very moving, and I really loved the counterbalances of Jude and Malcolm. I feel like they all represented something different. They’re all teenagers facing different challenges in their lives. I love how Desamours didn’t make it seem like one hardship was worse than another, but that everyone faces them and is allowed to have feelings. These characters felt like real teens to me.
I definitely did not guess the mystery aspect of this book AT ALL — but the only spoiler I will say is I think the payoff was worth it.
I can definitely see this book appealing to readers of YA murder mystery or thrillers! While this book was definitely geared towards teens, I absolutely think an adult will get as much fulfillment out of it as well.
The writing was strong and powerful and the book was for the most part engaging all the way to the end. There is a lot to unpack from this book – from how the media treats people, to how we respond to issues, to how we see ourselves.