By Jamie Maletta
Content warning: Domestic violence, obsession, manipulation
I won’t lie: I have binge-watched every episode of the Netflix phenomenon You since I first came across it. I’ve seen every episode, and I’m currently (impatiently) waiting for the next season. Since we’re confessing dirty little secrets: I didn’t realize this on-screen masterpiece was an adaptation of the book series by Caroline Kepnes. I had no idea. I opened the perfectly wrapped Christmas gift to discover there are actually three books in this series and decided the first You would be my debut read of 2022.
Diving into chapter one, we’re introduced to bookstore worker “Joe,” who we immediately realize has an obsession with women. There isn’t one thing about a good-looking woman that he’s within the vicinity of that Joe can’t contort into believing was intended for his pleasure. The way she looks, what she talks about, her body language—he’s completely convinced himself that these women want him. He absolutely believes he’s above everyone else and any of his personal downfalls he contorts into a justification to give him an advantage over others.
When a young, unsuspecting Guinevere Beck (known as “Beck”) walks into his bookstore, the obsession becomes too real. He must get to know her in every which way possible, and he stops at nothing to do so. He learns the ins and outs about her schedule, family, and friends. He ensures she believes the many coincidences he’s corralled to be placed between the two of them appear organic and natural. It’s no surprise that when they inevitably end up dating, he believes it’s for the long haul and that everything he’s done is out of pure love and dedication. When things begin to unravel, and he can no longer control every situation, he begins to “fix” what is in their way. He will do anything for love, and Joe’s dedication knows no limits.
I believe all of us know a “Joe,” or have been with or known someone to have been with a “Joe.” Maybe for you, it’s a feminine “Joe”—you get what I’m saying. As such, I believe this book could be incredibly triggering for anyone who’s experienced physical or psychological domestic abuse. The writing really gets into the mind of the manipulator, the narcissist, the person who believes every action they make is justified, no matter the effect or damage to their partner. Although this book is very well written, and one you just need to keep reading to know what’s going to happen next, I don’t believe that it’s for everyone. Some topics, some content, are worth leaving in the past.
As an aside to my review, if you’re experiencing domestic violence, please reach out to a family member, friend, or professional for help. Too many individuals suffer in silence, and it’s time to end that stigma. You are a survivor. There is a way out and a life that awaits you on the other side of domestic violence. Please check out https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health- promotion/stop-family-violence/services.html for a list of resources in your area.