A review by c_hamdete
Hell Followed with Us by Andrew Joseph White

dark emotional tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

This book took me back when I was fourteen years old, and I was so angry. In a way, I think I faced my teen self. I, like Benji, realised that my existence is outside of the binary of this cis heteronormative society. Like him, I hurt people I loved because I trusted the wrong ones. Like him, I thought I'd found love just for it to turn the other way around. Like him, I wanted to make people proud and to love me, even if it meant to hide my true self. Like him, I felt like a time bomb. Like him, I was so hurt and angry, I still am sometimes. But like him, I learnt to stand up for myself, to be proud of who I am, and to fight for what I think it's right. 
I would've liked to read more chapters from Nick's point of view. I would've liked to know more about the ALC members. I would've liked to know more about Benji's life before The Judgment Day, specially about his dad. And I think it would've been great if there were chapters from New Natzareth's people point of view, like Sister Kipling or Benji's mom.
 I expected to find an epilogue at the end of the book, just to know what happened with The Vanguard, with the ALC and other Angels. But overall, I really liked this book. The characters are very well constructed, each feel unique, flawed and beautiful. Most importantly they feel like kids, kids trying to be grown-ups, but kids nonetheless. Which I think is difficult to achieve, most of the time, when authors try to write teenagers they often seem annoying, immature, cringey and childish (at least some of the ones I've read). So, incredibly well-done! I'm looking forward to read more of Andrew White! 
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