Every Sunday we are taking a look at the world of books. I read a lot and always want to share my opinions on what I read, so I thought it would be fun to write reviews. Today we are looking at the fourth book in the YOU series.

For You And Only You (2023)

Caroline Kepnes

Synopsis

Joe Goldberg is ready for a change. Instead of selling books, he’s writing them. And he’s off to a good start.

Glenn Shoddy, an acclaimed literary author, recognizes Joe’s genius and invites him to join a tight-knit writing fellowship at Harvard. Finally, Joe will be in a place where talent matters more than pedigree . . . where intellect is the great equalizer and anything is possible.

Even happy endings. Or so he thinks, until he meets his already-published, already-distinguished peers, who all seem to be cut from the same privileged cloth.

Thankfully, Wonder enters the picture. They have so much in common. No college degrees, no pretensions, no stories from prep school or grad school. Just a love for literature. If only Wonder could commit herself to the writing life they could be those rare literary soulmates who never fall prey to their demons. There is so much they’re up against, but Joe has faith in Wonder. He will sacrifice his art for hers. And if he has to, he will kill her darlings for her.

– from Waterstones

Positive Points

If you are a fan of the Joe world then you will be happy that there is a new book in the series, there is a lot of new characters to meet and there is as usual, a whole load of dark thoughts by the main man to get involved in.

Negative Points

I would say out of all the books in the Joe Goldberg series, this is the weakest. The story feels like it did not need to go on after the third book and it feels like the television show definitely had a part to play in this. It feels like the Joe that was a character in the other books is changing.

Overall Review

I would say if you have got this far with the series, keep reading. Whilst the story is easy to read and to get used to the new characters, I am not sure if this book is needed and clearly it is all about the tie into the television shows. The Joe that was evident in the past books has altered and I am not sure if it works well in the new style and format. I will let you make that judgement.

Rating : *** 3 Stars