Books With Your Besties: Episode Summary – "Our Christmas Episode - You Better Watch Out"

In the festive yet chilling episode of "Books With Your Besties," hosts Emily and Ashley delve deep into the thriller-horror novel You Better Watch Out by James Murray and Darren Wearmouth. Released on December 27, 2024, this episode not only dissects the book's intricate plot and horrifying elements but also transitions into a broader discussion on serial killers and vigilante justice, drawing parallels between fiction and real-world events.

1. Introduction to You Better Watch Out

Emily (A) and Ashley (B) kick off the episode with enthusiasm about their recent read:

[00:22] B: "It's called You Better Watch Out by James Murray and Darren Wearmouth."

The hosts express their initial excitement and some apprehensions about the book's cover, which features a "knife wrapped in red and white polka dot wrapping paper with a gold bow" adorned with a bloody knife—a stark contrast to typical COVID-themed imagery.

2. First Impressions and Reading Experiences

The duo shares humorous anecdotes about reading the book in public places, highlighting the uneasy reactions from onlookers and their children due to the book's grisly cover.

[01:37] B: "I kept hiding it under my jacket because I didn't want to just set it down like, oh, hello... here's my knife killer book."

They discuss their initial feelings of fear and discomfort while reading, especially the graphic depictions of violence and gore.

[02:16] A: "I found it scary like I did not want to be reading it at night right before bed... the killing and the gore in it freaked me out."

Despite the fear, both hosts commend the book's ability to captivate them, making it a "super quick, fun read."

3. Plot and Character Analysis

3.1. Mysterious Abandoned Town

The book opens with multiple characters converging in an abandoned replica town called Old Forge, orchestrated through violent means. Initially puzzled, they soon realize the town is artificially crafted, devoid of any other inhabitants or usual town infrastructures.

[03:17] B: "What these people were brought here because they had committed crimes in their past... vigilante justice."

3.2. Themes of Vigilante Justice

Emily and Ashley delve into the book's central theme: vigilante justice. They ponder whether the characters are being punished for their past crimes and explore the moral implications of such retribution.

[24:38] B: "Each of these people were brought here because they had committed crimes in their past... a bigger theme of vigilante justice."

4. Graphic Depictions of Violence

The hosts vividly describe some of the book's most horrifying moments, including gruesome deaths and the psychological torment experienced by the protagonist, Eddie.

[06:16] B: "She had this box reported as suspicious and found. And there were the human remains of her boyfriend... human remains."

[07:07] B: "The propeller or whatever just keeps going around chopping off his body... why am I reading this?"

Despite the repulsive content, both Emily and Ashley remain enthralled by the narrative's progression and the authors' ability to intertwine horror with thriller elements seamlessly.

5. Real-World Serial Killers and Vigilantism

Transitioning from fiction to reality, the hosts discuss notable female serial killers, a rarity in the annals of criminal history. They highlight Dorothea Puente, a Sacramento-based serial killer who preyed on vulnerable tenants in her boarding house.

[11:26] A: "Dorothea Puente... Looks like just an everyday grandma."

They explore Puente's manipulative tactics, including forging checks and the cold-blooded manner in which she disposed of her victims, drawing parallels to the fictional antagonist Jess from the book.

5.1. Discussion on Pedro Rodriguez ("Killer Lil Pedro")

Emily and Ashley examine Pedro Rodriguez, a Brazilian vigilante whose real-life actions inspired the fictional character Dexter. Rodriguez targeted and killed suspected criminals, becoming a controversial figure with a significant following.

[25:24] B: "Pedro was murdered in 2023, and they still haven't caught the two people who killed him in a drive-by shooting."

5.2. Luigi Maggione and Modern Vigilantism

The conversation shifts to contemporary events, particularly the vigilante killing of the CEO of United Healthcare by Luigi Maggione. They discuss public perception and the ethical dilemmas surrounding such acts of revenge against perceived societal wrongs.

[29:44] B: "American adults under 30 are evenly split on whether they view him as favorable or unfavorable."

6. Ethical Implications and Jury Nullification

A significant portion of the episode delves into the legal concept of jury nullification, where juries acquit defendants despite evidence, based on personal beliefs about justice. Emily explains its historical misuse and potential justifications in cases of extreme crimes.

[38:36] A: "Jury nullification is the process by which a jury can literally say... we're good with it."

They debate whether vigilantism can ever be morally justified, especially when institutional justice systems fail to address heinous crimes adequately.

7. Personal Reflections and Real-Life Experiences

Both hosts share personal anecdotes related to violence and justice, including Ashley's encounter as a victim of drunk driving. These real-life stories add depth to their discussion on the consequences of criminal actions and the quest for retribution.

[46:58] B: "I was given the option when he was being sentenced... I said, absolutely, I want to be there."

8. Final Thoughts on You Better Watch Out

Emily and Ashley conclude their review of You Better Watch Out by reaffirming their appreciation for the book's compelling narrative and the authors' ability to evoke intense emotions and provoke thought.

[50:00] A: "Great book. I definitely still have some bad visions in my head from it that caused me to lose a little bit of sleep, but I'll get over that."

They recommend the book as a suitable entry point for thriller enthusiasts interested in light horror, despite its graphic content.

9. Upcoming Reads and Future Episodes

Before signing off, the hosts briefly mention their current reads, hinting at future discussions and continuing their mission to explore captivating literature with honesty and depth.

[51:54] A: "For more content, find us on Patreon. At the creepy book club."

Notable Quotes

• Ashley: "[02:16] I found it scary like I did not want to be reading it at night right before bed."

• Emily: "[06:18] All those deaths were sick. And I hated reading about them."

• Ashley: "[24:38] Each of these people were brought here because they had committed crimes in their past."

• Emily: "[38:35] So there's your versions of vigilantism."

• Emily: "[50:00] Great book. I definitely still have some bad visions in my head from it..."

Conclusion

In this gripping Christmas episode, Emily and Ashley offer a multifaceted exploration of You Better Watch Out, intertwining its fictional horrors with real-world discussions on serial killers and vigilantism. Their candid conversations provide listeners with both an in-depth analysis of the book and a profound reflection on justice, morality, and the human condition.

For those intrigued by the dark corridors of thriller and horror genres, "Books With Your Besties" presents a compelling narrative that resonates well beyond the pages of the book.

Support Emily and Ashley: To access bonus content, behind-the-scenes footage, and more engaging discussions, consider supporting the podcast on Patreon.

Happy reading, and stay curious!