I really didn't expect the twist in this story. It was a pleasant surprise. ( )

This was an audiobook listen and since it was only 2 segments I guess it is either a short story or a novella. But it certainly packs a punch.

The premise of the story is that if a family of refugees wishes to become a citizen of Britain one member must take a test to determine if they have the knowledge to be a citizen. Idir is taking the test while his family waits in another room. Suddenly an armed man enters the test room. He makes demands of the government and threatens to kill a hostage every 20 minutes if the demans are not met. He draws Idir into this by asking him to choose the hostage to be killed. Idir is appalled and begs to be released from this quandary. The story makes the reader uncomfortable and then it takes a strange twist.

Having discovered Neuvel's writing only recently I continue to be impressed with his ability. ( )

Riveting! ( )

Oh dang.

That ending.

That beginning.

That middle.

This novella. ( )

Well if that wasn't the most anxiety inducing thing I ever read in my life, I don't know what is. Well written, blackmirroresque, never going to read this again. ( )