The Black Coats

The Black Coats by Colleen Oakes, published by HarperCollins on February 12, 2019, is a 400-page young adult fiction novel that delves into themes of law, crime, and social issues. The story centers around a secret society of girls known as the Black Coats, who seek vengeance against men who have harmed them or their loved ones. The protagonist, Thea, is drawn into this world after her cousin’s killer evades justice, prompting her to join the group’s acts of revenge, known as balancings.

As the narrative unfolds, readers will explore Thea’s internal struggle as the balancings grow increasingly brutal, challenging her understanding of justice and revenge. The book addresses complex social themes, including violence and emotional abuse, while examining the consequences of taking justice into one’s own hands. This edition invites readers to reflect on the thin line between justice and revenge, making it a thought-provoking addition to contemporary young adult literature.