A review by barebookery
The List by Yomi Adegoke

challenging dark funny informative reflective tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This. book. is. EVERYTHING! When I say it is perfection from start to finish, I kid you not. It literally got better and more intense with every chapter. Every time I thought "How can it get crazier than this?"...BOOM! Another gag. 

This novel just felt so current and perfectly articulated all the ways social media can build people up and tear them down -- mentally, professionally, and socially. The way it influences the thoughts and actions of others, making them feel more familiar with people than they have any right to. The way it pumps up normal people we run into every day to feel superior to others because of their follower count. 

I could feel the walls closing in on Ola. Definitely an amazing protagonist. So real and relatable. Reading this at times felt like having a good yap session with a friend. Alexa, play "Girl" by Destiny's Child. 

This book was a literal page-turner. As soon as the plot was set in motion, it was a constant ride filled with plot twists and hard truths, all while under the pressure of a massive wedding spectacle and the cynicism of the internet. 

Reading from Michael's perspective as one of the accused offered an interesting peek into the chaos that ensues behind the screen when a public figure is under public scrutiny. The thoughts that lead to the insensitive apology posts, the discussions before revoked opportunities, the awkward interactions with friends and family, etc.

On top of all that, this story was infused with Nigerian and Ghanaian culture, though set in London. This definitely added another layer to the story considering the family values and traditions at play. I cannot stress enough how much this book had me on the edge of my seat. I loved it down and would recommend it to anybody, truly.