dbg_was_here 's review for:

Ace of Spades by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé

5.0

dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

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”I’m here to divide and conquer. Like all great tyrants do.”

The Story

Secrets are spilling at Niveus Private Academy, and it’s all because Aces, an anonymous texter, has plenty to share.

However, Aces seems to have a mission. Most of the secrets belong to Devon, a quiet gay musician, and Chiamaka, the resident HBIC—two seniors who have hardly ever spoken.

Well, until now. Because Aces is turning up the heat, and as petty pranks quickly escalate to sabotage, what connects these two may be the reason they’re in physical danger.

My Verdict

SNATCHED! RIP my wig

Scandalous and unputdownable.

What I Loved

• Chiamaka is the rightful heir to the queendom. Inspired by Blair Waldorf, she rules and, later, grows with excellence. I’m a stan.
• I found Aces to be an incisive allegory for existing villains in the US. If you pay close attention to the real history and timelines referenced throughout, the inspiration comes together.
• “By fire. By force.” I love stories where awful people get what they deserve. 😈

What You’ll Love 

• A twisty narrative perfect for fans of Gossip Girl, Pretty Little Liars, and Get Out. 
• Nonstop gags that just won’t let up. Whenever you think you figured it out, more treachery is waiting around the corner.
• This book reinforces why “I’m not racist” is not enough. When many of us might perpetuate racism without realizing it, anti-racism is the only answer.

This review has been repurposed from content designed to be published on my Instagram, so it may be missing elements that would complete the presentation. To see more or follow other reviews, meet me on Instagram at @dbg.was.here.