The Revenge List by Hannah Mary McKinnon
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Revenge List in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
The Revenge List by Hannah Mary McKinnon falls short of its potential, offering a shallow and predictable tale of betrayal and vengeance that fails to resonate with readers.
The Details
One of the main issues I have with the novel is its lackluster characters. The protagonist, Abigail, comes across as unlikable and unsympathetic. It makes it difficult for readers to connect with her struggles or root for her success. Supporting characters fare no better, with motivations that feel contrived and unconvincing.
Furthermore, the plot of The Revenge List is formulaic and derivative. From the outset, the twists and turns of the story feel predictable, robbing the narrative of any real tension or surprise. Instead of keeping readers guessing, the plot follows an unsurprising trajectory, with the resolution feeling inevitable.
The writing style in The Revenge List also leaves much to be desired. While the prose is serviceable, it lacks the depth and complexity needed to truly engage the reader. Dialogue often feels forced and unnatural, hindering the development of meaningful connections between characters.
Additionally, the pacing of the novel is inconsistent, making it difficult for readers to stay engaged with the story. It’s all very frustrating, since I like McKinnon’s other works.
The Verdict
Overall, The Revenge List is a disappointing read that fails to live up to its potential. With its lackluster characters, predictable plot, and uneven pacing, the novel struggles to hold the reader’s interest. It may appeal to fans of light suspense.
