Don't Look Behind You is a gripping suspense story that follows the classic tradition. It tells the tale of a family forced to suddenly leave their home and friends to join a government witness protection program. The transition is particularly challenging for April, the story's narrator and an eleventh grader, who must abruptly part from her boyfriend Steve, miss the upcoming prom, and skip Steve's graduation without offering any explanation. The family faces overwhelming challenges. Mrs. Corrigan, a successful author, cannot continue her writing and publishing career. Third grader Bram needs to be fitted for contact lenses to conceal his uniquely colored eyes, and April is unable to join the school tennis team because her talent might draw attention. Overwhelmed, she succumbs to her own selfish impulses, leading to disastrous results.

Set against a backdrop of drug dealers, hitmen, and fear, the novel delves into human nature. It highlights how people rely on a certain self-image and how altering that image is incredibly difficult. Each change triggers another, leaving the characters unsure of their identities. The thrilling climax brings them to the realization that the best way to maintain their identity is through each other. Together as a family, they can navigate any transformation.

April's inclination to view the world solely from her perspective is something readers can relate to. Her understandable but nearly fatal mistakes almost result in a tragic outcome. The themes of family, love, and unity help each member come to terms with their irreversible situation.