justreaditalreadypod's reviews
475 reviews

Single Player by Tara Tai

funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.25

 

I received an advance galley of this book courtesy of the publisher. All thoughts are my own.

 

We don't get many books about video games - and we get even fewer LGBTQIA+ books set in the video game world, so I was super-excited to get an advance copy of this one from the publisher. While the plot doesn't break new ground in terms of surprises, the vivid characters and the unique gaming-industry backdrop more than make up for it. If you're a fan of workplace romances, gaming culture, or witty banter, this book is definitely worth your time.

 

The book focuses on Cat Li, an overly enthusiastic and hopelessly romantic writer who has finally landed her dream job working on Compass Hollow, a major new game. Her task? To bring a swoon-worthy romance subplot to life. However, her boss, Andi Zhang (the other MC), is a no-nonsense narrative director who has no patience for love stories- either in video games or in real life. The clash between Cat's romantic idealism and Andi's pragmatic approach creates a fun enemies-to-lovers, grumpy/sunshine dynamic that drives the story forward.

 

From the get-go, Cat is a standout character. She's unapologetically passionate about both video games and romance, which makes her instantly relatable. What makes Cat truly shine, however, is her sense of humor. She's absolutely hilarious, with quips and observations that had me laughing out loud multiple times. Her optimism and determination to bring love to the narrative of Compass Hollow are infectious, and her personality lights up every scene she's in.

 

Andi Zhang, on the other hand, is a more complex character. Initially, their standoffish demeanor and disdain for romance make them seem like a typical "grumpy" counterpart in the classic grumpy/sunshine dynamic. But as the story unfolds, we see the layers behind Andi's guarded exterior, shaped by past trauma and professional challenges they face as a non-binary person in a cis-het-male-dominated profession. Their journey - from resisting Cat's romantic ideas to slowly warming up to both her creativity and her charm - is deeply satisfying. The chemistry between Cat and Andi is electric, with a mix of banter, tension, and tender moments that keep you rooting for them. It helps that we get alternating chapters from both character's perspectives, giving us a full-picture view of what is really happening.

Throughout the novel, both Cat and Andi have to confront their personal fears and biases, which adds emotional weight to the story. Andi's reluctance to open up and Cat's determination to prove herself as more than just a "romance writer" create compelling personal journeys that enrich the central romance.

 

As I mentioned earlier, the video game industry is a fresh and intriguing backdrop for a romantic comedy. Tai's depiction of the development process makes the book feel authentic and adds depth to the story. The challenges Andi faces, including recovering from a doxxing incident and trying to prove their worth in a competitive industry, highlight real issues in the gaming world, making the narrative more impactful.

 

That said, the plot of Single Player follows a fairly predictable trajectory. While there are stakes - like Cat and Andi needing to save Andi's career and deliver a compelling game - the outcomes are pretty predictable - especially for rom-com lovers (and that's not necessarily a bad thing). 

I both read a paperback ARC and listened to an ALC of this title and loved the narration provided by Natalie Naudus. Naudus was able to give both Cat and Andi different inflections and personalities, so it was never difficult to know which character was in charge of the narrative at any given time. If you prefer audiobooks, I recommend this one.

 

While the novel might not reinvent the wheel in terms of romantic comedy plots, its endearing characters, clever humor, and unique setting make it a thoroughly enjoyable read. Cat's hilarious antics, Andi's layered personality, and the behind-the-scenes look at video game creation all come together to create a story that is as entertaining as it is heartwarming. If you're looking for a romance that combines workplace drama, geeky charm, and a healthy dose of laughs, this book is a solid pick.

Something in the Walls by Daisy Pearce

dark mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

 

I've said it before, and I'll say it again - I love a good haunted house/possession story, so naturally, when I got a "read now" alert from NetGalley that the publisher had made this available, I had to jump at the chance. While it left me scratching my head a bit toward the end, the first 3/4 of the book was a crazy, creepy ride that I thoroughly enjoyed! It begins like a ghost/possession story in the vein of The Conjuring 2 but evolves into something much darker and more unsettling, reminiscent of the cultish unease of Midsommar. 

 

The story introduces us to Mina, a young woman who recently became a child psychologist. The problem is that she struggles to be assigned interesting cases due to her lack of experience. She is also still dealing with the grief of losing her brother when she was a child. Grappling with professional insecurity, unresolved grief for her brother's death, and an impending marriage to Oscar, a meticulous and emotionally distant researcher - Mina has a lot on her mental plate. 

Things begin to look up when Sam Hunter, a journalist and man Mina knows from her grief support group, asks her to travel with him to the remote town of Banathel to look into an intriguing and troubling case: Alice Webber, a 13-year-old girl, claims to be haunted by a witch who lives in her bedroom walls. Desperate for professional experience and drawn by the mystery, Mina agrees to work with Alice. 

Mina is certain that it's all in Alice's head, and her behavior and the weird things that the family claims are happening are just a result of the heat and mental health struggles. But the town seems to have a strange fascination with witchcraft, and what are the scuffling sounds and shadows that seem to be just outside of Mina's door at night? Is there some truth to Alice's claims, or is this all being staged by the family for financial gain and notoriety? 

 

If there's one thing the author does an amazing job of it's creating an atmosphere thick with unease. The suffocating heatwave in Britain mirrors Mina's internal turmoil and sets the stage for her journey into the remote and creepy village of Banathel. The strange townfolk and weird traditions and beliefs helped make the village feel like a character in its own right. Pearce also does a great job of balancing the supernatural elements with Mina's psychological perspective, keeping the reader guessing about whether Alice's symptoms are paranormal or rooted in trauma. 

 

For the first 80% of the novel, Pearce maintains a taut and compelling narrative. Mina's investigations into Alice's condition and Banathel's secrets are engrossing, and the eerie occurrences in the Webber household are genuinely unsettling. Pearce's ability to evoke dread is exceptional; every creak of the house and shadow in the corner felt real. I teetered on the edge of being totally freaked out and skeptical of what was really happening. 

 

However, the novel takes an abrupt turn when it reveals the truth behind Alice's condition and the nature of Banathel's dark secrets. Without delving into spoilers, this twist was unexpected and seemed to take a sharp right turn away from where I thought it was going. Pearce shifts from a ghost story to something more primal, a move that feels a little disorienting and raises a few questions that I didn't feel were fully addressed. The supernatural ambiguity that Pearce so masterfully built up gave way to an explanation that, while imaginative, felt slightly at odds with the novel's earlier tone. 

 

Despite this, I still enjoyed the book. Pearce's ability to create a creepy, tense atmosphere is unparalleled, and her characters are richly drawn. I think this is one that will resonate differently depending on the reader. If you're someone who appreciates bold storytelling choices and doesn't mind an abrupt shift in tone, the ending will likely satisfy you. For others, like myself, the last act might feel less satisfying than the gripping, suspenseful buildup that preceded it. While the ending may not land perfectly for everyone, the journey through the creepiness to get there is still a fun ride. 

The Games Gods Play by Abigail Owen

adventurous medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

The Business Trip by Jessie Garcia

medium-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

1.25

The Really Dead Wives of New Jersey by Astrid Dahl

dark funny medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

 

I received an advance galley of this book courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

 

Some of you may know that I am a bit of a Real Housewives addict. This came on during the pandemic when I binged Beverly Hills, New Jersey, Salt Lake City, Potomac, and then Atlanta over the course of a year and a half. The petty fights and ridiculousness keep me coming back for more. Naturally, when I saw this book, I immediately requested it on NetGalley. Overall, it's a witty, campy take on reality television culture, packed with humor, drama, and a cast of over-the-top characters that feel like they've strutted straight off the set of The Real Housewives. But, while it begins as an engaging romp, it stumbles in the second half, losing some of its initial charm.

 

The story centers on the Sicilian-American Fontana family, whose lives are the focal point of Garden State Goddesses, one of Huzzah's (think Bravo) most popular reality shows. At the heart of the drama is the show's producer, Eden Bennett, who seeks to revamp the series by bringing her estranged cousin, Hope, into the spotlight. Hope and Eden were raised in a Northern Californian cult, and Hope's innocence is exactly what Eden feels will bump up their ratings and ensure her a top spot in a larger franchise. When Hope marries into the Fontana family after a whirlwind romance with bachelor Leo, she is immediately integrated into the cast which includes Carmela, the suspicious and sharp-tongued sister-in-law; Valerie, a lovable but hapless socialite; Birdie St. Clair, the regal and barely coherent grand dame; and Renée, a relatable single mom with a daughter who is determined to be the next Ariana Grande.

 

From the moment Hope steps into the chaos of the Fontana clan, the drama unfolds with rapid-fire dialogue, outrageous confrontations, and plenty of secrets. The first half of the novel feels like binge-watching a season of a juicy reality show. Dahl's writing captures the exaggerated personalities, power struggles, and performative interactions that define the Real Housewives franchise. The humor is sharp, the campiness dialed up to ten, and the pacing is swift. Readers are treated to absurdly hilarious moments that some may recognize as being lifted straight out of their favorite Real Housewives episodes.

 

However, the narrative takes a darker turn when one of the cast members collapses and dies at a gala hosted by Birdie, setting off a murder mystery that disrupts the show's manufactured drama. Eden, who has been content to manipulate the lives of her cast for ratings, finds herself drawn into the investigation, revealing long-held secrets that threaten the future of the show.

As I mentioned earlier, the first half of the book flies by, and I found myself laughing out loud many times at the campiness of it all. The author is obviously a Housewives fan and combines the personalities of several fan favorites from across the franchise to develop her characters. I loved tying their quirks back to some of my faves.

 

While the premise is intriguing, the execution falters in the second half. The humor and energy that characterize the opening chapters begin to wane, and the pacing becomes uneven. Though initially engaging, the mystery becomes predictable, with its resolution lacking the spark and cleverness of the book's opening. I saw it all coming from a mile away.

 

Ultimately, this book is a fun, campy read that captures the absurdity of reality TV while offering a murder mystery twist. It's a story bursting with unforgettable characters and biting humor, even if it loses some of its sparkle along the way. Fans of The Real Housewives franchise or anyone looking for an entertaining, over-the-top escape will find much to enjoy here—just be prepared for a second act that doesn't quite live up to the promise of the first.

Definitely Better Now by Ava Robinson

emotional funny hopeful medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

 

I received an ALC of this book courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

 

Novels that deal with alcoholism or addiction and are then marketed as lighthearted, bittersweet, or hilarious sometimes make me cringe, so I was a little hesitant to read this one. After seeing some favorable early reviews, I decided to snag a copy in my Book of the Month box this month, and I'm happy to say I wasn't disappointed. Tackling the delicate subjects of addiction, sobriety, and complicated family dynamics, the author approaches these topics with a refreshing mix of candor and compassion. 

 

The story centers on Emma, a 26-year-old navigating her second chance at life after achieving a year of sobriety. From the outside, her progress looks impeccable: twelve months without alcohol, a steady office job, and a clean slate. But beneath the surface, Emma finds herself grappling with the messy realities of life. Sobriety hasn't wiped away her struggles; instead, it has brought them into sharper focus. 

 

One thing that has helped Emma stay so focused over the last year was the unwavering support from her mother and the fact that she kept her secret hidden from her friends at work - never going out to happy hour with them. She's terrified of admitting that she is in recovery. But then, one day, with the encouragement of her sponsor, she goes out with them and is shocked to find that no one runs screaming - in fact, they're very supportive, which gives Emma a taste of hope. When Ben, a charming IT guy from her office, catches Emma's eye, she allows herself to take the plunge, but is she ready for this? What if he leaves her? What if she is too much? What if she can't do this sober?

 

What really makes this book shine is Robinson's ability to capture Emma's vulnerability without resorting to clichés. Emma isn't a one-dimensional "heroine overcoming addiction." She is awkward, flawed, and sometimes painfully honest. Her mistakes are frustrating yet endearing, making her feel real and relatable. What I especially appreciated was that sobriety isn't depicted as a magical cure-all but as an ongoing process filled with triumphs and setbacks. This honest portrayal makes Emma's journey feel authentic and resonant.

 

Emma's budding relationship with Ben is sweet without being overly saccharine. Ben's patience and understanding stand in contrast to Emma's often chaotic inner world, creating a dynamic that is both heartwarming yet complex. I especially loved how Ben was so patient with Emma as she learned how to date while sober. Ben is the first guy she has ever dated or had sex with while not under the influence, so this was new territory for her.

 

Family dynamics play a significant role in the novel, adding layers of depth to Emma's story. Her mother's decision to move in with her boyfriend and her estranged father's sudden reappearance create emotional tension that forces Emma to confront unresolved issues from her past. Emma's father's drinking when she was a child is what led to her parent's divorce, and to an extent, Emma blames him for her own struggles, so reconnecting with him opens wounds in Emma that she hasn't had to face while sober. 

 

I both read and listened to the audiobook of this one and thoroughly enjoyed the narration by Karissa Vacker. Her performance effortlessly captures Emma's vulnerability, wit, and emotional depth, making the listening experience that much more enjoyable.

 

Overall, this is a story that will make you laugh, cringe, and fill you with hope. I loved the characters and the journey they go on. If you're a fan of deeply moving stories that honestly but respectfully deal with sensitive subjects then this book is for you. It's a worthy read for anyone seeking a heartfelt and profoundly relatable story.

Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney

dark mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

 

I received an ALC of this book courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

 

This is the first book by this author that I've read, and what an introduction - this definitely won't be my last. In my opinion, this was a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling. The novel is as unsettling as it is captivating, filled with moments of creeping dread, unexpected twists, and a finale that left me utterly speechless. It’s the kind of book that lingers in your mind long after you’ve turned the final page. (Seriously - I'm still thinking about it.)

 

The story opens with author Grady Green on what should be one of the best days of his life. He’s received exciting news regarding his latest book and is eager to share it with his wife, Abby. But their phone call takes a harrowing turn when Grady hears the sound of screeching brakes and Abby stepping out of her car. Then, silence. When Grady rushes to the scene, he finds her car perched at the edge of a cliff. The headlights are still on, her phone is still there—but Abby is gone, and the red jacket she was wearing is at the bottom of the cliff. 

 

A year later, Grady is a shell of his former self. Unable to write another book since Abby's disappearance, Grady is desperate for answers and consumed by grief. He struggles financially, has lost his home, and lives with his dog in a motel. Thanks to his literary agent, who is just as desperate for him to write another book, Grady retreats to a remote Scottish island in the hopes of writing his next bestseller while piecing his life back together. 

 

It’s on this island that Grady’s already fragile reality begins to unravel. He keeps seeing a woman who looks exactly like Abby. Is it really her? Could she have survived? Or is Grady’s grief and desperation warping his perception of reality? These questions drive the story forward, pulling the reader into a psychological labyrinth where nothing is quite as it seems.

 

Feeney excels at crafting flawed, deeply human characters, and Grady is no exception. His grief is palpable, his desperation relatable, and his actions, though at times frustrating, feel authentic. The characters on the island - especially Sandy (the sheriff and ferry driver) are all expertly drawn, and each one plays a distinct role in bringing the story to life. Not one of them is wasted. The island, with its moody landscapes and ever-present sense of isolation, becomes a character in its own right. Feeney’s descriptions of the setting are richly atmospheric, perfectly complementing the novel’s tone. You can almost feel the chill of the wind and hear the crash of the waves as you read. I was just as intrigued by the island as I was by the rest of the cast.

 

One of the most impressive aspects of the novel is how Feeney keeps the reader guessing. From the outset, I had my suspicions about certain elements of the story, but Feeney deftly misdirects and subverts expectations. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, the rug is pulled out from under you. The final chapter, in particular, is a jaw-dropper. My gobs were officially smacked! It ties together the narrative threads in a way that felt both surprising and inevitable. Of course, it had to end that way!

 

I went for a fully immersive read with this one. I had the hardcover thanks to an early release through Book of the Month, but I also had an ALC thanks to the publisher, so I both listened and read, and what a treat that was! The production value of the audio version is top-notch. The sound effects added to the creepy atmosphere while Richard Armitage and Tuppence Middleton (the voice actors) knocked it out of the park with their portrayals of the characters. Seriously amazing!

 

I've struggled with thrillers lately, but this one delivers on its promise of unexpected twists and turns. The story is creepy, atmospheric, and emotionally resonant and had me hooked until the very shocking end. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers that delve into the darker corners of the human mind, this is a must-read. I can’t wait to dive into more of Alice Feeney's work.

You Can't Hurt Me by Emma Cook

dark mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

 

I received an ALC of this book courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

 

I hadn't heard of this book until I saw it listed in an email from a publisher offering an audiobook for review. I decided to give it a go, and while familiar in structure, it kept me engaged with a few unexpected twists. 

 

The book begins with the shocking discovery of Eva Reid's lifeless body in her home. Eva was born with a condition that prevented her from ever feeling physical pain. Her rare condition has always drawn intrigue—both scientific and personal. Her husband, Dr. Nate Reid, is a celebrated scientist who built his career studying pain, including Eva's condition.

 

Anna Tate is a journalist drawn to the case. Anna has a troubled past, which helps drive her tenacious personality, and she becomes determined to find out if Eva truly overdosed or if something else was at play. When Anna is pegged to help pen Nate's biography, she gets a front-row seat and access to their home - a home that may hold the answers she seeks. Anna places herself into the Reid household, peeling back layers of their relationship and uncovering secrets that cast doubt on Nate's intentions and Eva's death. Nate's clinical fascination with Eva, combined with the power dynamics of their marriage, raises red flags that Anna can't ignore. But the more time she spends with Nate, the more she can't help but feel drawn to him - which may be her downfall. 

 

Anna's character is especially intriguing. While Eva couldn't feel physical pain, Anna discovered that the woman definitely had a lot of emotional pain she carried with her - and Anna understands all too well what carrying a lifetime of emotional baggage can do to you. A survivor of her own traumas, she's relentless in her pursuit of the truth, though she is not without her flaws. Her obsession with Eva's seemingly "perfect" existence creates a compelling tension throughout the story.

 

While many of the characters are well-drawn, some of the supporting cast - particularly the character of Nate - feel more like plot devices than fully fleshed-out individuals. Nate's character hit every beat you would expect, and I found him to be somewhat dull.

 

While the premise is fascinating and the character dynamics compelling, the mystery itself unfolds in a somewhat predictable manner. Cook employs many familiar tropes of the domestic thriller genre: the brilliant yet sinister husband, the "perfect" wife with a hidden darkness, and the obsessive outsider determined to uncover the truth. However, Cook manages to inject enough surprises to keep the reader guessing, particularly in the book's second half. The revelations, while not groundbreaking, are satisfying and well-paced.

What really grabbed me was the novel's exploration of pain - not just as a physical sensation but as an emotional and psychological force. Eva's inability to feel pain is juxtaposed with Anna's inability to escape it, creating a powerful contrast. 

 

Alix Dunmore narrates the audiobook, and she did a great job! Her performance elevates the material, bringing nuance and vitality to the characters. Her portrayal of Anna is particularly strong, capturing the journalist’s mix of determination, vulnerability, and bitterness. Dunmore’s narration enhances the tension in key moments, adding to the atmosphere and tension.

 

If you’re a fan of domestic thrillers with layered protagonists and enjoy pondering the complexities of human nature, You Can’t Hurt Me is a solid choice. While it may not redefine the genre, its engaging premise, unexpected twists, and excellent audiobook narration make it a worthwhile addition to your reading list.

A Home for the Holidays by Taylor Hahn

emotional hopeful lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

 

I thought I was done with holiday-themed books for the year, but I remembered I had selected this from Book of the Month and decided to squeeze it in. I'm so happy I did. This is a poignant, bittersweet novel that masterfully blends grief, hope, and heartwarming connections. Yeah - I know - the grief part doesn't sound exceptionally upbeat for the holidays, but I think that's why I liked it as much as I did. It showed a different side to the holidays than we usually see in the sweet, Hallmark-style stories we read at this time of year.

 

The story follows Mel Hart, a wedding singer with a penchant for holiday traditions. Her childhood was shaped by the juxtaposition of her mother Connie's alcoholism and her extraordinary ability to make Christmas magical - so much so that Mel believed in Santa for much longer than most kids her age because Connie was so good at setting it up to make it look like he was real. 

 

Mel's world is upended when she receives a call informing her of her mother's death just two weeks before Christmas. While dealing with the shock of her loss, a woman appears at Connie's doorstep while Mel is going through her things. The woman introduces herself as Barb - Connie's former best friend. Desperate for some family time and eager to learn more about her mother's early days, Mel agrees to spend the holidays with Barb and her family. It's at Barb's home that Mel hears stories of Connie's once-bright future as a country music star - dreams derailed by personal struggles and sacrifices.

 

Among Barb's family, Mel discovers a sense of belonging she hadn't anticipated, especially as she navigates a budding attraction to Barb's son, Andrew, who is grappling with his own emotional baggage. Will this holiday bring Mel the happiness she has been searching for, or will it only end in more heartache?

 

While the story ended up being somewhat predictable, I still enjoyed it, and a lot of that had to do with the characters. Mel is a protagonist who feels wholly relatable, and her struggles with grief and self-doubt are especially touching. Her vulnerability and strength make her an endearing character to root for, especially as she makes peace with her mother's addiction - an addiction that ended up taking her life.

 

Barb is another amazing character. She brought a larger-than-life personality filled with humor that covered old wounds of her own. I loved how she was able to offer a lens into Connie's past that Mel never had access to. I also enjoyed Andrew, and even though his role in the story felt predictable, he was still a character I rooted for.

 

Hahn manages to cover themes of grief, addiction, and estranged relationships with remarkable sensitivity. The exploration of grief is especially poignant as Mel processes the loss of her mother while uncovering truths that reshape her memories of Connie. The narrative doesn't shy away from the pain of losing someone imperfect, but it also celebrates the beauty in their humanity. Hahn's portrayal of mother-daughter dynamics—both the joys and heartbreaks—is particularly moving, adding depth to the story's emotional core. I also loved the theme of found family that was presented in the novel, and I enjoyed watching Mel find her place in a family that might be able to give her what she has desperately needed for so long. 

 

The pacing of the book is steady, and the author skillfully unfolds secrets about Connie's past, keeping the narrative compelling without veering into soap opera territory. The writing is infused with warmth and wit, balancing the novel's heavier themes with moments of levity. The dialogue is sharp and often humorous, reflecting the characters' unique personalities and relationships.

 

Overall, I really enjoyed this one. I would recommend it to readers looking for a holiday read that offers a little more of an emotional punch. This book is definitely for readers who enjoy stories that balance emotional depth with moments of levity over cutesy rom-com tropes. If you want a book to end the holiday season with, check this one out.

Vantage Point by Sara Sligar

dark medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

 

I received an advance galley of this book courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

 

I think there's something wrong with me. I am having a tough time enjoying any sort of thriller these days. I don't know if my month of Halloween reads caused it or if I'm just tired of the genre in general. While this one had an intriguing premise and promised to be reminiscent of HBO's "Succession," I was left disappointed when all was said and done. 

 

Set against the backdrop of the cursed Wieland family, the novel delves into the lives of Clara, her brother Teddy, and her best friend and Teddy's wife, Jess as they navigate the haunting legacy of their parents' deaths and the pressures of modern public life. 

 

Teddy is running for a Senate seat (or maybe it was Congress - I forget), so he and Jess are on the campaign trail. Things look promising for Teddy's chances, so he steps down as head of the family's corporation and appoints his younger sister, Clara, as head. When a video surfaces of a drugged-out Clara having sex with an unknown man, it brings Clara's former addiction struggles to light and reignites the Wieland family curse. The video is only the beginning of the family's problems. As Clara falls deeper into paranoia, she begins having visions of her dead parents, and Teddy's poll numbers begin to tank. When more questionable videos appear, the family drama intensifies. April has always been a dangerous month for the family, and it looks like this year will be no different. The question is - which one of them will die?

 

On the one hand, the premise was really intriguing. I love stories about rich people behaving badly; this one has it in spades. One thing that worked well for the book was the dual narrative structure, alternating between Clara's and Jess's perspectives. Clara, with her chaotic and unreliable narration, is the novel's most compelling character. Her erratic behavior and fractured sense of reality make her fascinating to follow, even if she's not entirely likable. 

 

Jess, on the other hand, serves as a counterbalance—calmer, more grounded, and ultimately more relatable. The dynamic between the two women, particularly given their shared history and complicated ties to Teddy, is one of the novel's strengths. Their relationship is layered, shifting between loyalty, resentment, and unspoken tension, providing much of the emotional weight.

 

Another thing that worked really well (and was probably my favorite part of the novel) was the Wikipedia-style articles that closed each chapter. These entries chronicled the deaths of various members of the Wieland family, reinforcing the idea of the family's supposed curse. 

 

One of the biggest drawbacks of this book was its lack of surprises. From the outset, the story lays its cards on the table and pretty much spells out that we are focusing on AI and deepfake videos. Yes, these things are prevalent today, but I'm kind of tired of these plot points. It could also have something to do with the fact that I don't really care for technothrillers, which this book definitely is. By the time the final revelations come, they feel more like confirmations of what readers have long suspected rather than shocking twists.

 

Teddy, Clara's brother and Jess's husband, is another weak point in the story. As a character, he feels like a collection of clichés. His presence in the narrative is less engaging compared to Clara and Jess, making him feel more like a plot device than a fully realized person.

 

I was also disappointed that the book is marketed as being similar to "Succession" (a show I love), but I failed to find any real comparisons between this book and the TV show besides the story focusing on a wealthy family of broken characters. 

 

Overall, this book was pretty underwhelming. The story, while competently written, lacks the edge and unpredictability that might have made it memorable. It's worth a read for fans of unreliable narrators and intricate relationships or those who are into technothrillers, but it may leave others feeling unsatisfied. I know I certainly was.