A review by jesssica__berg
Followers by Megan Angelo

4.0

a gripping exploration into the complexities of our online personas versus our real selves, a theme that's more relevant now than ever. This novel is a smart, thought-provoking dive into the future of social media, friendship, and the fine line between public and private life.

Angelo constructs a compelling narrative that alternates between past and future timelines, illustrating the long-term effects of our current digital obsessions. Her characters are a mix of ambition, vulnerability, and flawed humanity, making them both relatable and fascinating. Orla, Floss, and Marlow's intertwined stories reveal the dark underbelly of internet fame and the high cost it demands on personal relationships and self-identity.

What truly stands out in "Followers" is Angelo's speculative take on the future of social media. It's both imaginative and unsettlingly plausible, serving as a cautionary tale that resonates deeply in today's selfie-obsessed culture. The futuristic aspects are well-crafted, offering a mirror to our present-day actions and their potential to shape our future.

Angelo's writing is sharp and insightful, weaving societal critiques with personal dramas in a way that's both entertaining and enlightening. Her depiction of the contrast between online facades and real-life complexities is handled with finesse, making the reader question their own digital footprints and connections.

I'm giving "Followers" four stars because while the book offers an engaging and insightful reflection on digital culture, some parts felt a bit overdrawn, and the pacing occasionally lagged. However, the novel ultimately delivers a powerful message about the importance of genuine human connections in a world increasingly dominated by screens and superficial interactions.