How to Hide in Plain Sight: A Deep Dive into Eliot Beck’s World
As I settled into my reading nook with How to Hide in Plain Sight by Emma Noyes, I found myself drawn in by the promise of a fresh, heartfelt exploration of mental health—specifically, OCD. Having previously been captivated by Noyes’ ability to tackle such sensitive subjects in Guy’s Girl, I was eager to see how she would once again navigate the intricacies of anxiety and familial relationships. With a name like Eliot Beck, I was ready to dig deep into the psyche of this character struggling in a battle that often feels invisible to the outside world.
Eliot’s story unfolds against the vibrant backdrop of New York City, where her job as a copywriter symbolizes a semblance of normalcy amid chaos. However, the ghosts of her past loom large, particularly the loss of her brother, Henry, and the relationships she’s left behind. When her older brother invites her to his wedding in Canada, the tension couldn’t be more palpable. This move away from her comfort zone thrusts Eliot back into the arms of her family—and her old best friend, Manuel, whose presence sparks old feelings and even greater anxieties.
Noyes continues her trend of writing from personal experience, and her candid depiction of OCD is both striking and haunting. While I admired her intention to shine a light on the disorder, I found it challenging to fully connect with Eliot. Many of her internal struggles revolved around complicated feelings of attraction and guilt, reflecting a reality that, while authentic, grew somewhat tiresome to read. Eliot’s ongoing fixation during the narrative feels muddled, almost overshadowing her overall character arc—a detail that somewhat diminished my engagement with her journey.
One of the most compelling aspects of How to Hide in Plain Sight is the exploration of familial ties. Yet, the sheer number of characters felt overwhelming at times. While they are integral to her life, I struggled to connect with them on a deeper level; many were reduced to basic traits, lacking the complexity I craved. This depth would have bolstered Eliot’s character, especially as she navigated emotional turmoil. I couldn’t help but long for more layers in the narrative, particularly from Manuel, who remained a constant yet somewhat distant figure throughout Eliot’s reflections.
As I turned the final pages, I noted the unresolved feelings swirling within me. With a climax leading to the wedding and the promise of emotional confrontation, I found myself yearning for a clearer resolution. Although Noyes has portrayed the enduring nature of mental health struggles—an admirable endeavor—it ultimately left me feeling as if I had not quite stepped out of Eliot’s tumultuous thoughts.
Despite my reservations, I still believe How to Hide in Plain Sight will resonate with readers who enjoy a candid, albeit complex, study of mental health set against the backdrop of familial love and longing. Fans of Turtles All the Way Down may find similarities in the struggle with OCD, though Noyes delivers uniquely from her own lens.
In reflecting on my journey through Eliot’s life, I couldn’t help but acknowledge the importance of conversations around mental health. Noyes has provided a brave voice, effectively shining a light on battles many individuals face daily. For those interested in a raw exploration of anxiety and the ties that bind us, this novel might just be the right fit—inviting readers to seek answers that may very well be hiding… in plain sight.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 3.5 stars
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