A Tangled Web of Desire and Deception: A Review of “Come and Get It” by Kiley Reid

Kiley Reid’s “Come and Get It” weaves a complex and thought-provoking story about desire, class, race, and the blurred lines between student and teacher interaction. Set on a college campus, the novel explores the power dynamics and ethical dilemmas that arise when a young Black resident assistant, Millie, becomes entangled with a visiting white professor, Agatha, and three unruly students.

Strengths:

• Compelling Characters: Reid creates a diverse cast of characters who are all flawed and complex. Millie, navigating the pressures of work and impending graduation, is a relatable protagonist whose struggles resonate with readers. Agatha, initially enigmatic, slowly reveals her vulnerabilities, adding depth to her character.
• Social Commentary: The novel delves into various social issues, including race relations, class dynamics, and the power dynamics between faculty and students. Reid tackles these complex topics with nuance, sparking conversations about privilege, consent, and the subjective nature of truth.
• Intriguing Plot: The narrative unfolds with a sense of mystery, keeping the reader guessing about the characters’ motivations and the true nature of their relationships. The suspense builds as unexpected twists and turns reveal the hidden layers of the story.

Considerations:

• Unlikable Characters: While complexity is a strength, some readers might find the characters, particularly Agatha and the students, unlikable due to their manipulative behavior and questionable choices. This can make it difficult to fully connect with their narratives.
• Moral Ambiguity: The novel explores ethical gray areas and leaves many questions unanswered. This open-endedness, while thought-provoking, might frustrate readers seeking clear-cut answers and definitive judgments about the characters’ actions.
• Slow Pacing: The story unfolds at a deliberate pace, focusing on character development and nuanced exploration of social issues. Readers seeking a fast-paced, action-driven plot might find the narrative slow and lacking in immediate suspense.

Overall: “Come and Get It” is a captivating and thought-provoking read that demands critical thinking and engagement with its multifaceted themes. While its complex characters and slow pacing might not appeal to all readers, it offers a unique perspective on power dynamics, social constructs, and the consequences of blurred boundaries.

Recommendation: Recommended for readers who enjoy literary fiction, coming-of-age stories, and narratives that explore social issues and ethical dilemmas. Be prepared for a story with complex characters, moral ambiguity, and an open-ended conclusion that invites discussion and interpretation.