You Can’t Catch Me
You Can’t Catch Me
By: Catherine McKenzie
Dangit McKenzie! Why can’t you write a book without all the f-words?? (52 f-words, 32 s-words) If not for them, this would be a five star book, but now I must reevaluate if I can continue your books knowing the language will always be a factor.
As for this story, I thought it was fantastically done. Similar tones (and title) to the movie Catch Me If You Can, it’s Jessica Williams seeking revenge on a con artist who took her money. The thief targets people named Jessica Williams; there’s several in this book, but the author does a good job of helping you keep all the Jessica’s straight as each one comes into the picture.
There is a second story thread recounting her childhood in a cult, her escape, and the aftermath, as well as learning what happened to dear Kiki.
McKenzie has woven a complex and twisted story that surprisingly had me say ‘Didn’t see that coming!’ which I find to be a feat these days.
I admit, I did question the OG Jessica’s character at times- growing up in a sheltered cult but still having developing the humor, social skills, personality, or other cultural knowledge she was portrayed with. Granted it had been over 10 years and I don’t know what it takes to become deprogrammed, but considering how much she still thought about the cult leader and his sayings, it didn’t *quite* mesh with her knowledge progression and online abilities. And especially humor. I liked the humor but I’m pretty sure you can’t develop that kind of humor that late in life after growing up in a cult. But alas, I don’t really care that much. I let it play.
It was a really intriguing premise, with how prevalent identity theft is, it’s a bit of a warning as well with what information we share with others. I’d like to think I wouldn’t fall for inadvertently giving away my security question answers, but it helps you see how easy it could be for someone to fool you. Stay alert, people- no one needs to know your mother’s maiden name or the street you used to live on. Fly the red flag!
So yeah, if you can get past the language, you’re going to enjoy this book.
**Received an ARC via NetGalley**