A review by gardens_and_dragons
Lady Macbeth by Ava Reid

dark mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

So! It was interesting, but not what I expected, and I think Reid’s other books are better. It is a fast read that has great gothic vibes…. but I had some issues with how much was changed to one of our fave manipulative villainesses in lit to a 17 year old who’s own smaller acts of villainy realistically is a product of her fear of men in a world ruled by men. Villainy used to keep herself safe, even if her selfishness hurts others. It means ultimately, the men in the book still held the ultimate power. 

This retelling of Lady Macbeth had so much potential, especially with its gothic atmosphere and exploration of feminine rage. However, it ultimately fell short in several areas. I found it lacked the depth and nuance that I've come to expect from Ava Reid's work, which left me feeling disappointed. 

I think that I expected more of an escapist “yeah support women’s wrongs” but this was just a tragedy. If you keep that in mind maybe you’ll like it more. 
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