The Eyes Are the Best Part by Monika Kim

In Monika Kim’s gripping psychological horror novel, "The Eyes Are the Best Part," Ji-won's world spirals into chaos after her father's affair shatters her family. Her mother's distress, her sister's pain, and her own academic struggles pale in comparison to the haunting dreams plaguing her—visions of blood-soaked rooms filled with eyes, particularly the striking blue eyes of George, her mother's arrogant new boyfriend.

George's presence disrupts their already cramped apartment, flaunting his success and belittling Ji-won and her sister. His entitlement and disrespect fuel Ji-won's growing fury, pushing her towards a dark path where her dreams of violence and revenge become all-consuming.

As bodies begin to accumulate on campus and Ji-won's deceptions multiply, her hunger for retribution intensifies. Kim crafts a narrative that delves deep into Ji-won's unraveling psyche, exploring themes of rage, betrayal, and familial turmoil. Ji-won's descent into darkness is both disturbing and mesmerizing, challenging conventional narratives of female psychology and agency in horror.

"The Eyes Are the Best Part" not only explores Ji-won's personal journey but also paints a portrait of a family fractured by infidelity and struggling to find redemption. Kim's narrative is bold and inventive, offering a fresh perspective on the female serial killer trope from a Korean-American viewpoint. It's a chilling exploration of the blurred lines between victim and perpetrator, sanity and madness, leaving readers captivated and eagerly anticipating Kim's next unsettling tale. ❤️📚❤️