Watched by CJ Lyons is a fast-paced, gritty thriller that tackles cyberstalking and personal bravery. It follows Jesse, a teen blackmailed by an anonymous watcher, as he fights to break free and protect those he loves. The story is intense and suspenseful, with high stakes that keep you hooked. Perfect for readers who enjoy dark, realistic thrillers with a focus on resilience and courage.

This was a difficult read. Not as in the writing was bad, because it wasn't it was good. And it helped me to understand how people could end up in certain situations. But, man, the situations were rough. I almost couldn't finish it because of what the characters had to go through.

I'm not sure if this is still as accurate of a depiction of internet issues as it was when it came out but that's just the deal with technology. It changes fast. I'm sure CJ Lyons could write a different book that is exceptionally rough about new technology issues and would still have just as much of an impact.

(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)

When hackers can hijack any cellphone or computer webcam, no one is safe- including Jesse
Jesse seems like a normal sixteen-year-old, but he isn't. He is a victim of King-a ruthless hacker who has been blackmailing Jesse with incriminating screen photos and videos. So far, Jesse's given in to King's demands in order to protect his family. But now King wants something that's too horrible to contemplate- and if he doesn't get it, King will kill Jesse's little sister.
Terrified and helpless, the answer to Jesse's prayers arrives in the form of a plain manila envelope. Inside there's a phone number and a note: I can help.

Over the years, I have read a few books by this author. But I hadn't never read any YA fiction from her. And, I really hope she has more out there cos I am very keen on reading more...this is not your typical YA fare, it must be said. It is dark and terrifying, the subject matter scary as hell for all parents...but it is a VERY good story...

There are two things that really stand out for me:

The characters: Miranda and Jesse. Their stories are harrowing, their lives a nightmare due to the lives they are forced to lead. But they are tough and resilient. They are so well-written that I felt real emotion during the story - I just connected with them in a way I don't normally do in YA books. It was very satisfying.

The action: everything was right in your face and turned up to 10. While most of the book was the tracking down of "King", all the details just keep smacking me in the face, making me turn yet another page to see how that would go down...and the finale? Well, that was just intense!

Overall, a very good book and one that I would have no trouble receommending!


Paul
ARH

Not reviewed or posted online because I didn't finish it so I felt it unfair to review.