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The Ten Worst People in New York
Perfect for fans of The Collective and We Begin at the End, this psychological thriller will make you question the nature of justice… and revenge.
The ten worst people in New York are dying, one after the other.
A late-night TV chat show feature, The Ten Worst People in New York, is the talk of the town. When a real estate mogul on the Ten Worst list jumps to his death, it could be a coincidence. But after a corrupt NYC councilor, also on the list, dies suspiciously, recently widowed Special FBI Agent Alex Bedford suspects foul play.
Young British filmmaker Jacob Felle arrives in New York to connect with his estranged sister, Elizabeth, and to reconcile a long-buried family trauma. But Alex and Jacob are on a collision course, and when Jacob becomes a suspect, the two find themselves in a race to unravel the mystery before even more people die. Both Alex and Jacob must confront their worst fears and put their lives on the line as they try to find the answer to two key questions:
Why are the killers targeting the ten worst list? And who will be next to die?
The ten worst people in New York are dying, one after the other.
A late-night TV chat show feature, The Ten Worst People in New York, is the talk of the town. When a real estate mogul on the Ten Worst list jumps to his death, it could be a coincidence. But after a corrupt NYC councilor, also on the list, dies suspiciously, recently widowed Special FBI Agent Alex Bedford suspects foul play.
Young British filmmaker Jacob Felle arrives in New York to connect with his estranged sister, Elizabeth, and to reconcile a long-buried family trauma. But Alex and Jacob are on a collision course, and when Jacob becomes a suspect, the two find themselves in a race to unravel the mystery before even more people die. Both Alex and Jacob must confront their worst fears and put their lives on the line as they try to find the answer to two key questions:
Why are the killers targeting the ten worst list? And who will be next to die?
320 pages, Hardcover
Published March 18, 2025
20 people are currently reading
5271 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
April 17, 2025
I don’t know what I was expecting when I read the synopsis for The Ten Worst People in New York, but what I just finished certainly wasn’t it. With a hard to track plot line and a large cast of characters almost all of whom were shallow in nature, I was lost in translation from almost the very beginning. At the same time, the premise kept me firmly in suspense as the dual POVs fought to follow the action just as much as yours truly. Fast-paced, complex, and filled with cat-and-mouse antics, I was hooked despite its inherent flaws until its explosive climax and thought-provoking end.
That’s not to say, though, that the negatives didn’t detract from my love for this novel. With twists that underwhelmed, a middle that dragged, and an unhinged plot that couldn’t have felt less genuine if it tried, I was somewhat disappointed when the last page arrived. Despite this, however, there were also some strong positives as well. The top of that list was the female main character. FBI Special Agent Alex Bedford was the only persona with whom I truly connected. Authentically flawed and fully fleshed out, she was my favorite aspect to this novel, no ifs, ands, or buts.
All said and done, this satirical debut crime thriller definitely delivered on the thrills and the chills. Unfortunately, though, it wasn’t all clear sailing as the short cliffhanger chapters also provided plenty of confusion. With a first half that functioned more on the what ifs than on facts, my mind was spinning until the first deft, shocking twist. All of that being said, however, this book has issued a wide range of opinions, so give mine a large grain of salt and perhaps pick it up. After all, thanks to social commentary that will have you thinking long and hard, I’m glad that I finished it despite its shortfalls. Rating of 2.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
The ten worst people in New York are dying, one after the other.
A late-night TV chat show feature, The Ten Worst People in New York, is the talk of the town. When a real estate mogul on the Ten Worst list jumps to his death, it could be a coincidence. But after a corrupt NYC councilor, also on the list, dies suspiciously, recently widowed Special FBI Agent Alex Bedford suspects foul play.
Young British filmmaker Jacob Felle arrives in New York to connect with his estranged sister, Elizabeth, and to reconcile a long-buried family trauma. But Alex and Jacob are on a collision course, and when Jacob becomes a suspect, the two find themselves in a race to unravel the mystery before even more people die. Both Alex and Jacob must confront their worst fears and put their lives on the line as they try to find the answer to two key questions:
Why are the killers targeting the Ten Worst list? And who will be next to die?
Thank you to Matt Plass and Crooked Lane Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: March 18, 2025
Content warning: drug use, violence, gun violence
That’s not to say, though, that the negatives didn’t detract from my love for this novel. With twists that underwhelmed, a middle that dragged, and an unhinged plot that couldn’t have felt less genuine if it tried, I was somewhat disappointed when the last page arrived. Despite this, however, there were also some strong positives as well. The top of that list was the female main character. FBI Special Agent Alex Bedford was the only persona with whom I truly connected. Authentically flawed and fully fleshed out, she was my favorite aspect to this novel, no ifs, ands, or buts.
All said and done, this satirical debut crime thriller definitely delivered on the thrills and the chills. Unfortunately, though, it wasn’t all clear sailing as the short cliffhanger chapters also provided plenty of confusion. With a first half that functioned more on the what ifs than on facts, my mind was spinning until the first deft, shocking twist. All of that being said, however, this book has issued a wide range of opinions, so give mine a large grain of salt and perhaps pick it up. After all, thanks to social commentary that will have you thinking long and hard, I’m glad that I finished it despite its shortfalls. Rating of 2.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
The ten worst people in New York are dying, one after the other.
A late-night TV chat show feature, The Ten Worst People in New York, is the talk of the town. When a real estate mogul on the Ten Worst list jumps to his death, it could be a coincidence. But after a corrupt NYC councilor, also on the list, dies suspiciously, recently widowed Special FBI Agent Alex Bedford suspects foul play.
Young British filmmaker Jacob Felle arrives in New York to connect with his estranged sister, Elizabeth, and to reconcile a long-buried family trauma. But Alex and Jacob are on a collision course, and when Jacob becomes a suspect, the two find themselves in a race to unravel the mystery before even more people die. Both Alex and Jacob must confront their worst fears and put their lives on the line as they try to find the answer to two key questions:
Why are the killers targeting the Ten Worst list? And who will be next to die?
Thank you to Matt Plass and Crooked Lane Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: March 18, 2025
Content warning: drug use, violence, gun violence
March 23, 2025
Fantastic premise. Like amazing.
Page turning 1st chapter. I was super excited about this one.
Then the wheels fell off. I had to push myself to finish it. I so wanted to like it but after the first chapter it read like random words on a page to me, clunky and had forgettable characters.
I totally have ADHD brain so it could totally be a me problem.
In short, it just wasn’t for me.
Page turning 1st chapter. I was super excited about this one.
Then the wheels fell off. I had to push myself to finish it. I so wanted to like it but after the first chapter it read like random words on a page to me, clunky and had forgettable characters.
I totally have ADHD brain so it could totally be a me problem.
In short, it just wasn’t for me.
February 9, 2025
A late-night television show titled The Ten Worst People in New York quickly becomes a cultural phenomenon, but when the individuals named on the show begin to fall victim to a series of brutal murders, the FBI is forced to intervene and uncover the truth behind the killings. The premise is undeniably intriguing, promising a sharp, suspenseful thriller with biting social commentary. Unfortunately, the execution fails to deliver on that potential.
One of the novel’s biggest challenges is its overwhelming cast of characters. With so many individuals to track, the narrative quickly becomes convoluted, making it difficult to form meaningful connections with any of them. While some characters seem poised for compelling development, they ultimately remain underexplored, leaving the reader disengaged. Additionally, the transitions between characters are abrupt and poorly structured, disrupting the narrative flow and making the storytelling feel disjointed.
The pacing is sluggish, with long stretches of the book feeling drawn out rather than building tension or momentum. This, combined with a writing style that lacks emotional depth and urgency, results in a reading experience that feels more like a chore than an immersive thriller. By the time the story reaches its conclusion, it has lost much of its initial intrigue, ultimately falling flat.
Despite an attention-grabbing premise and a title that suggests a gripping, high-stakes narrative, the book ultimately falls short of expectations. What could have been a fast-paced, darkly entertaining mystery instead becomes an exhausting and underwhelming read.
One of the novel’s biggest challenges is its overwhelming cast of characters. With so many individuals to track, the narrative quickly becomes convoluted, making it difficult to form meaningful connections with any of them. While some characters seem poised for compelling development, they ultimately remain underexplored, leaving the reader disengaged. Additionally, the transitions between characters are abrupt and poorly structured, disrupting the narrative flow and making the storytelling feel disjointed.
The pacing is sluggish, with long stretches of the book feeling drawn out rather than building tension or momentum. This, combined with a writing style that lacks emotional depth and urgency, results in a reading experience that feels more like a chore than an immersive thriller. By the time the story reaches its conclusion, it has lost much of its initial intrigue, ultimately falling flat.
Despite an attention-grabbing premise and a title that suggests a gripping, high-stakes narrative, the book ultimately falls short of expectations. What could have been a fast-paced, darkly entertaining mystery instead becomes an exhausting and underwhelming read.
March 18, 2025
#ad many thanks for my advance copy @crookedlanebooks #partner
& @librofm #partner for the ALC
𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓣𝓮𝓷 𝓦𝓸𝓻𝓼𝓽 𝓟𝓮𝓸𝓹𝓵𝓮 𝓲𝓷 𝓝𝓮𝔀 𝓨𝓸𝓻𝓴
ʀᴇʟᴇᴀꜱᴇꜱ: ᴍᴀʀᴄʜ 𝟤𝟢𝟤𝟧
While the title may be a mouthful, The Ten Worst People in New York by Matt Plass is a fast-paced thriller that kicks off from the start. You find yourself bound and in the back of a van, you better figure out what is happening and figure it out fast.
Ricky Talon has a running poll for the 10 worst people in New York. Now peoples names on that list are dying one by one.
Alex Bedford, an FBI agent, is trying to figure out what is happening. Suicides or murders?
While this book wasn’t totally for me, I still enjoyed it overall. It’s a good mystery and has lots of thrills. I’d say to give this book a try because you might love it.
The audio also took a bit to get used to. I’m not sure what the female narrator was trying for with a New York accent but it was too much for me. The rest of the narration was great and the male one did a good job.
I did love the short chapters. It was a quick read.
& @librofm #partner for the ALC
𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓣𝓮𝓷 𝓦𝓸𝓻𝓼𝓽 𝓟𝓮𝓸𝓹𝓵𝓮 𝓲𝓷 𝓝𝓮𝔀 𝓨𝓸𝓻𝓴
ʀᴇʟᴇᴀꜱᴇꜱ: ᴍᴀʀᴄʜ 𝟤𝟢𝟤𝟧
While the title may be a mouthful, The Ten Worst People in New York by Matt Plass is a fast-paced thriller that kicks off from the start. You find yourself bound and in the back of a van, you better figure out what is happening and figure it out fast.
Ricky Talon has a running poll for the 10 worst people in New York. Now peoples names on that list are dying one by one.
Alex Bedford, an FBI agent, is trying to figure out what is happening. Suicides or murders?
While this book wasn’t totally for me, I still enjoyed it overall. It’s a good mystery and has lots of thrills. I’d say to give this book a try because you might love it.
The audio also took a bit to get used to. I’m not sure what the female narrator was trying for with a New York accent but it was too much for me. The rest of the narration was great and the male one did a good job.
I did love the short chapters. It was a quick read.
March 21, 2025
Vigilante justice is the best kind of justice. This book is like a renegade/ vigilante mashup. They’re eliminating horrible people, for good reason. Everyone in the city is cheering them on.
There are alot of players in this story, so keep your whits about you. Maybe take notes. Start with the top ten list, and check them off as they’re taken out lol. That’s the easy part. Figuring out who is behind it, is the mystery.
I found this book to be fast moving, with a high body count. I enjoyed trying to keep up with the lies and figuring out the truth. In the end, it all made sense and was satisfying. I won’t tell you if it was the good or bad guys that made out in the end, but you won’t be disappointed
There are alot of players in this story, so keep your whits about you. Maybe take notes. Start with the top ten list, and check them off as they’re taken out lol. That’s the easy part. Figuring out who is behind it, is the mystery.
I found this book to be fast moving, with a high body count. I enjoyed trying to keep up with the lies and figuring out the truth. In the end, it all made sense and was satisfying. I won’t tell you if it was the good or bad guys that made out in the end, but you won’t be disappointed
March 9, 2025
A solid thriller. I enjoyed the dual pov and the audio was great! It reminded me of Peter Swanson’s Nine Lives but I liked this one better
December 12, 2024
The Ten Worst People in New York has an intrguing plot that kept me turning the pages.
These ten people from the list are being systematically killed off one by one.
FBI Agent Alex Bedford is brought in to investigate these deaths and I quite liked him and hope to see him return at some point.
The author did a good job with twists and turns but I found my atteniont wandering in the middle but I did want to finish the book and I am certainly glad I did.
I found there were alot of characters to follow but that could have just been me on the day I was reading it.
I will certainly pick up the next book that Matt Plass writes and I look forward to seeing what he has in store for the reader next.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review The Ten Worst People in New York.
These ten people from the list are being systematically killed off one by one.
FBI Agent Alex Bedford is brought in to investigate these deaths and I quite liked him and hope to see him return at some point.
The author did a good job with twists and turns but I found my atteniont wandering in the middle but I did want to finish the book and I am certainly glad I did.
I found there were alot of characters to follow but that could have just been me on the day I was reading it.
I will certainly pick up the next book that Matt Plass writes and I look forward to seeing what he has in store for the reader next.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review The Ten Worst People in New York.
December 18, 2024
This is a story about ten people who have committed horrendous acts in one way or another and people are out to make them pay, but who are they? As the first few deaths come to the attention of FBI Special Agent Alex Bedford, he knows there is something terrible occurring and his department needs to act before more deaths happen.
Jacob Felle is a film director who has been estranged from his sister Elizabeth for the last four years and he is unsure why. Elizabeth had many anger issues from childhood but Jacob cares about her very much and tries to reconnect with her. Once he begins to try to track her down, he is faced with a situation much more complex than he previously thought. Soon Jacob finds himself embroiled as a suspect in these deaths and now he is out too clear not only his name, but Elizabeths.
I found this book to be very slow, there are numerous characters to keep track of which was mentally exhausting, and my original thought of such an interesting premise began to wane and I struggled to get through it. When I first saw the title, I thought this was going to be a very exciting read, but unfortunately, I found this was not to be.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
Jacob Felle is a film director who has been estranged from his sister Elizabeth for the last four years and he is unsure why. Elizabeth had many anger issues from childhood but Jacob cares about her very much and tries to reconnect with her. Once he begins to try to track her down, he is faced with a situation much more complex than he previously thought. Soon Jacob finds himself embroiled as a suspect in these deaths and now he is out too clear not only his name, but Elizabeths.
I found this book to be very slow, there are numerous characters to keep track of which was mentally exhausting, and my original thought of such an interesting premise began to wane and I struggled to get through it. When I first saw the title, I thought this was going to be a very exciting read, but unfortunately, I found this was not to be.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
March 19, 2025
The Ten Worst People in New York is an extremely timely and topical discussion on wealth and vigilantism.
A late night host has a segment called "The Ten Worst People in New York" where watchers can nominate the corrupt and evil. It's all fun and games until the ten people start dying from apparent suicides. Is the killer just as bad as them or a middle-class hero?
The only thing I'd say here that really affected my enjoyment was that I expected a thriller and got something closer to an FBI procedural. It is still a very fast paced read but the plot does get a bit convoluted at times and I think it could have been more precise so readers stay engaged and don't get lost in the details.
I still enjoyed my time with this book and it was a nice genre shift from all the fantasy I've been reading lately. Absolutely great concept!
⭐⭐⭐
Available March 18, 2025
Thank you to Booksparks and Crooked Lane Books for a complimentary review copy and for having me along for the book tour!
A late night host has a segment called "The Ten Worst People in New York" where watchers can nominate the corrupt and evil. It's all fun and games until the ten people start dying from apparent suicides. Is the killer just as bad as them or a middle-class hero?
The only thing I'd say here that really affected my enjoyment was that I expected a thriller and got something closer to an FBI procedural. It is still a very fast paced read but the plot does get a bit convoluted at times and I think it could have been more precise so readers stay engaged and don't get lost in the details.
I still enjoyed my time with this book and it was a nice genre shift from all the fantasy I've been reading lately. Absolutely great concept!
⭐⭐⭐
Available March 18, 2025
Thank you to Booksparks and Crooked Lane Books for a complimentary review copy and for having me along for the book tour!
March 7, 2025
This was a decent book, but the narration was not. The accents were very odd choices, which would have been fine if they were done well, but they weren’t. Southern accents, British accents, New York accents, French accents…all sounded like caricatures performed by someone who had never done one before. That was the issue, I think—a lack of experience.
With the exception of the male narrator’s British accent (I think he is British), every one was terrible and completely took me out of the story.
I’d skip the audio version of this one.
Three stars for the book, one star for the voice performances.
With the exception of the male narrator’s British accent (I think he is British), every one was terrible and completely took me out of the story.
I’d skip the audio version of this one.
Three stars for the book, one star for the voice performances.
March 21, 2025
What a ride this was! I really enjoyed the premise— it’s a public hit list of New York’s worst people. It seems like just a regular listicle until people from the list start dying. They were made to look like suicides, but the FBI agent notices something is fishy, and the closer they looked the more they realized all the names were connected.
It goes from being a voted list to being a personal vendetta.
I thought it interesting when we got to one of the 10 worsts POV’s, the narration became second person. I was concerned that was going to be the whole book, but it ended up being a unique identifier for when we were reading from the POV of someone who was about to die.
It was a thrill ride from start to finish, and the end felt very fast paced but in a way that gets your heart racing the way an end of a thriller movie does. I really enjoyed this one!
Thank you Booksparks for the read and having me on the review tour!
It goes from being a voted list to being a personal vendetta.
I thought it interesting when we got to one of the 10 worsts POV’s, the narration became second person. I was concerned that was going to be the whole book, but it ended up being a unique identifier for when we were reading from the POV of someone who was about to die.
It was a thrill ride from start to finish, and the end felt very fast paced but in a way that gets your heart racing the way an end of a thriller movie does. I really enjoyed this one!
Thank you Booksparks for the read and having me on the review tour!
March 18, 2025
This one was so fun to read! I loved the premise- a Jimmy Fallon-esque Tonight Show with a “10 Worst People in New York” fan-generated list, and now some of the people on that list are suspiciously un-aliving themselves. I loved how the author played with different POV depending on the character. It starts with second-person POV for the “worst” people, then back to third-person for the FBI agent and one of the MMC’s. I also loved the satire, and comparing the characters to their real life inspirations.
I felt like I was in the dark, as much as Jacob, through most of this book, and just wanted to know WTF was going on. That suspense, along with the action and short chapters, made this for a fast and easy read.
I’d recommend this to anyone who likes crime thrillers, books with NYC as the setting, and satire.
4.5/5 rounded up
I felt like I was in the dark, as much as Jacob, through most of this book, and just wanted to know WTF was going on. That suspense, along with the action and short chapters, made this for a fast and easy read.
I’d recommend this to anyone who likes crime thrillers, books with NYC as the setting, and satire.
4.5/5 rounded up
March 20, 2025
You will like this one if you love the tropes
🗽Satirical social commentary
🌆The neurotic protagonist
🗽Fish out of water
🌆The self absorbed urbanite
🗽Dark humor
🗽🌆🗽🌆🗽🌆
My Review
This book is told in multiple POV and I did like that because it kept me interested. It’s also fairly short chapters. A jimmy Fallon like late night talk show host releases a list of the 10 worst people in New York then shortly after they start unaliving themselves or are they? I will say the writing was very matter of fact and some of the things the author thought of were clever. However there is a lot happening all at once and you really have to pay attention so you’re not confused.
Thank you @booksparks for giving me the opportunity to be on #tenworstreviewtour with @mattplass new book.
🗽Satirical social commentary
🌆The neurotic protagonist
🗽Fish out of water
🌆The self absorbed urbanite
🗽Dark humor
🗽🌆🗽🌆🗽🌆
My Review
This book is told in multiple POV and I did like that because it kept me interested. It’s also fairly short chapters. A jimmy Fallon like late night talk show host releases a list of the 10 worst people in New York then shortly after they start unaliving themselves or are they? I will say the writing was very matter of fact and some of the things the author thought of were clever. However there is a lot happening all at once and you really have to pay attention so you’re not confused.
Thank you @booksparks for giving me the opportunity to be on #tenworstreviewtour with @mattplass new book.
March 20, 2025
THE TEN WORST PEOPLE IN NEW YORK
book tour✨
author: @matt_plass
Pub date: 03.18.25
Pages: 308
Genre: crime thriller
Short synopsis: A popular tv show host has made a list of the worst 10 people in New York, and they are being killed off one by one…
Dual POV between FBI agent Alex Bedford who is trying to connect the deaths to each other - and Jacob, a filmmaker trying to reconnect with his estranged sister. Jacob becomes a suspect, and the two of them are trying to figure out the case before he’s too late. The big question: who’s the next target?
I’m thankful this book came with a list of the ten people because there were LOTS of characters to keep up with! Definitely take your time and make a note of who is who! The chapters were super short 🙌🏻 and this one is easy to fly through. Any crime thriller/police procedural fans will FLY through this!
Huge thanks to @booksparks and the author for sending me an incredible package along with this book! #tenworstpeopletour
book tour✨
author: @matt_plass
Pub date: 03.18.25
Pages: 308
Genre: crime thriller
Short synopsis: A popular tv show host has made a list of the worst 10 people in New York, and they are being killed off one by one…
Dual POV between FBI agent Alex Bedford who is trying to connect the deaths to each other - and Jacob, a filmmaker trying to reconnect with his estranged sister. Jacob becomes a suspect, and the two of them are trying to figure out the case before he’s too late. The big question: who’s the next target?
I’m thankful this book came with a list of the ten people because there were LOTS of characters to keep up with! Definitely take your time and make a note of who is who! The chapters were super short 🙌🏻 and this one is easy to fly through. Any crime thriller/police procedural fans will FLY through this!
Huge thanks to @booksparks and the author for sending me an incredible package along with this book! #tenworstpeopletour
March 12, 2025
Thanks to Booksparks for the gifted copy. All opinions below are my own.
A TV personality debuts a list of the most deplorable people in NYC: an Epstein type, an obnoxious TV presenter, a priest who covered up abuse, a slumlord, a conspiracy theorist who trolls people etc. Soon after, the people on the list start turning up dead. We follow an FBI agent and a film maker, who is a suspect, as they race to uncover the truth.
This one was definitely convoluted. We get alternating POVs between the murders as they happen, the FBI agent and the film maker. There are a lot of characters and so many red herrings. I liked the short chapters and the quick pace but not sure the ending was for me.
A TV personality debuts a list of the most deplorable people in NYC: an Epstein type, an obnoxious TV presenter, a priest who covered up abuse, a slumlord, a conspiracy theorist who trolls people etc. Soon after, the people on the list start turning up dead. We follow an FBI agent and a film maker, who is a suspect, as they race to uncover the truth.
This one was definitely convoluted. We get alternating POVs between the murders as they happen, the FBI agent and the film maker. There are a lot of characters and so many red herrings. I liked the short chapters and the quick pace but not sure the ending was for me.
Read
March 2, 2025DNF at 49%. I struggled to connect with this plot because it never really captured my interest. The pacing felt slow, the characters felt very bland and one storyline was dull and repeatedly pulled me out of the main story. Unfortunately this book just didn’t work for me.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
March 14, 2025
Thanks to the publisher, via Netgalley, for an advance e-galley for honest review.
Had high hopes for this one, didn't feel like it really delivered on its promise. What it did well was capture the New York environment, where it lost me was with flat characters and what felt like little effort into a cohesive plot.
Had high hopes for this one, didn't feel like it really delivered on its promise. What it did well was capture the New York environment, where it lost me was with flat characters and what felt like little effort into a cohesive plot.
May 11, 2025
The title and synopsis came in strong, but the story fell flat...
Imagine your favorite NY-based late night host came up with a hairbrained idea to rank the 10 most awful people in town. Think Letterman's Top 10, but dumb. And then one-by-one those awful people start dying off via copycat suicide (bruh, is that even a thing???) Enter the first main character, Special Agent Alex Bedford, the only person with a lick of sense in the entire story. Undeterred by the naysayers surrounding her, Agent Bedford pieces together clues to help link the deaths together (as if the existence of list itself isn't enough to link them together???) We also meet our second main, Jacob Felle, a British filmmaker who's in town to visit his estranged sister, Elizabeth whose hobbies include sailing solo around the world and throwing hands whenever the mood arises. At some point, their paths cross and we find out why these people are dying (uhh...because they're the worst) and whose next (I'll give you nine guesses).
So here are my abridged thoughts on the book:
(1) I like the idea of a list of people getting what's coming to them. Pick them off one by one, move onto the next, and you're good to go. But that's not what happened here. Very early in the story becomes muddled by too many characters and too many backstories. By the end of it, you feel like Charlie Day in front of a string board.
(2) The twists were kind of predictable. I kind of guessed what was going on from the first few chapters. Per Occam's Razor, the simplest answer is usually the correct one.
(3) The audio version of the novel actually takes away from the story. The voice actors should have been given some sort of direction and it's clear that they weren't. Full disclosure, I'm a Black New Yorker who grew up with a London-raised grandmother. The male voice, he was fine. It was clear that he was a British actor playing a British character, no stretch there. Now the female voice...both the New York accent and British accent were not it. And I hate to be disparaging, but the NY was so bad I almost felt offended. And the kind of NY accent she went with is more akin to someone who grew up in a predominately Italian neighborhood in specific parts of NYC, rather than NYC in general. It's like they watched a few episodes of the Soprano's and said good enough. If it wasn't for specific lines within the text, I wouldn't have figured out that Alex Bedford was a Black woman. Also, her attempt at a British accent came off more like Atlanta's Teddy Perkins. If it wasn't for the narration, I probably would have rated this higher.
Imagine your favorite NY-based late night host came up with a hairbrained idea to rank the 10 most awful people in town. Think Letterman's Top 10, but dumb. And then one-by-one those awful people start dying off via copycat suicide (bruh, is that even a thing???) Enter the first main character, Special Agent Alex Bedford, the only person with a lick of sense in the entire story. Undeterred by the naysayers surrounding her, Agent Bedford pieces together clues to help link the deaths together (as if the existence of list itself isn't enough to link them together???) We also meet our second main, Jacob Felle, a British filmmaker who's in town to visit his estranged sister, Elizabeth whose hobbies include sailing solo around the world and throwing hands whenever the mood arises. At some point, their paths cross and we find out why these people are dying (uhh...because they're the worst) and whose next (I'll give you nine guesses).
So here are my abridged thoughts on the book:
(1) I like the idea of a list of people getting what's coming to them. Pick them off one by one, move onto the next, and you're good to go. But that's not what happened here. Very early in the story becomes muddled by too many characters and too many backstories. By the end of it, you feel like Charlie Day in front of a string board.
(2) The twists were kind of predictable. I kind of guessed what was going on from the first few chapters. Per Occam's Razor, the simplest answer is usually the correct one.
(3) The audio version of the novel actually takes away from the story. The voice actors should have been given some sort of direction and it's clear that they weren't. Full disclosure, I'm a Black New Yorker who grew up with a London-raised grandmother. The male voice, he was fine. It was clear that he was a British actor playing a British character, no stretch there. Now the female voice...both the New York accent and British accent were not it. And I hate to be disparaging, but the NY was so bad I almost felt offended. And the kind of NY accent she went with is more akin to someone who grew up in a predominately Italian neighborhood in specific parts of NYC, rather than NYC in general. It's like they watched a few episodes of the Soprano's and said good enough. If it wasn't for specific lines within the text, I wouldn't have figured out that Alex Bedford was a Black woman. Also, her attempt at a British accent came off more like Atlanta's Teddy Perkins. If it wasn't for the narration, I probably would have rated this higher.
March 15, 2025
📚 BOOK TOUR BOOK REVIEW 📚
The Ten Worst People in New York
By Matt Plass
Publication Date: March 18, 2025
Publisher: Crooked Lane Publishing
📚MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you so much to BookSparks #partner , Crooked Lane Publishing, and Matt Plass for the invitation to be a part of this book tour, the incredible swag box, and the #gifted copy of the book in exchange for my honest review!
📚MY REVIEW:
The Ten Worst People in New York is an intelligent thriller featuring a slow-burning cat-and-mouse plotline that leaves the reader constantly questioning who's the cat and who's the mouse.
This book is told through multiple POVs: FBI agent Alex Bradford; Jacob Felles, indie filmmaker and ardent protector of his big sister Elizabeth; and the unknown killer. A prominent late-night show creates a list of the ten worst people in New York City, as voted on by the public, and they're all hated and despicable people. One by one, those named on the list begin dying in manners that appear to be suicide. But Special Agent Bradford can't shake the nagging feeling that their deaths aren't accidental or coincidental. Jacob is trying to find his sister and save her from imminent danger, though she isn't making it easy for him. And how all these storylines intersect is quite the twisting and turning adventure!
At first glance, this book doesn't seem that long at just over 300 pages. But man, did this take me a REALLY freaking long time to read! The story kept me intrigued, I really enjoyed Plass's matter-of-fact writing style, and the chapters were pretty short overall. These are three characteristics that typically create a fast read for me. But there was something about this book that just took a while to read. Was it because the print size seemed a little smaller than was typical? Maybe. Was it because there were a lot of storylines going on and a LOT of different characters to keep track of? Maybe. Whatever it was, I think it's good to know this one wasn't a fast-paced, heart-pounding thriller. Don't be misled -- this WAS twisty and it DID have a really strong plotline! I definitely recommend picking this one up if you enjoy cat-and-mouse thrillers, if you're a fan of intelligent reads with numerous plotlines intersecting, or if thrillers about revenge, FBI work, and police procedurals are your vibe.
#TheTenWorstPeopleInNewYork #MattPlass #CrookedLanePublishing #BookSparks #TenWorstBookTour #ARCs #thrillerreads #thrilleraddict #thrillerlover #booklover #bookreviews #bookrecs #bookrecommendations
The Ten Worst People in New York
By Matt Plass
Publication Date: March 18, 2025
Publisher: Crooked Lane Publishing
📚MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you so much to BookSparks #partner , Crooked Lane Publishing, and Matt Plass for the invitation to be a part of this book tour, the incredible swag box, and the #gifted copy of the book in exchange for my honest review!
📚MY REVIEW:
The Ten Worst People in New York is an intelligent thriller featuring a slow-burning cat-and-mouse plotline that leaves the reader constantly questioning who's the cat and who's the mouse.
This book is told through multiple POVs: FBI agent Alex Bradford; Jacob Felles, indie filmmaker and ardent protector of his big sister Elizabeth; and the unknown killer. A prominent late-night show creates a list of the ten worst people in New York City, as voted on by the public, and they're all hated and despicable people. One by one, those named on the list begin dying in manners that appear to be suicide. But Special Agent Bradford can't shake the nagging feeling that their deaths aren't accidental or coincidental. Jacob is trying to find his sister and save her from imminent danger, though she isn't making it easy for him. And how all these storylines intersect is quite the twisting and turning adventure!
At first glance, this book doesn't seem that long at just over 300 pages. But man, did this take me a REALLY freaking long time to read! The story kept me intrigued, I really enjoyed Plass's matter-of-fact writing style, and the chapters were pretty short overall. These are three characteristics that typically create a fast read for me. But there was something about this book that just took a while to read. Was it because the print size seemed a little smaller than was typical? Maybe. Was it because there were a lot of storylines going on and a LOT of different characters to keep track of? Maybe. Whatever it was, I think it's good to know this one wasn't a fast-paced, heart-pounding thriller. Don't be misled -- this WAS twisty and it DID have a really strong plotline! I definitely recommend picking this one up if you enjoy cat-and-mouse thrillers, if you're a fan of intelligent reads with numerous plotlines intersecting, or if thrillers about revenge, FBI work, and police procedurals are your vibe.
#TheTenWorstPeopleInNewYork #MattPlass #CrookedLanePublishing #BookSparks #TenWorstBookTour #ARCs #thrillerreads #thrilleraddict #thrillerlover #booklover #bookreviews #bookrecs #bookrecommendations
February 27, 2025
The Ten Worst People in New York by Matt Plass is a recommended investigative thriller.
After viewers of Ricky Talon's late night TV show are asked to vote for their choices, he shares a list of their chosen ten worst people in New York. It's all fun and games until two of the people on the list turn up dead. Their deaths appear to be by their own hand but recently widowed Special FBI Agent Alex Bedford suspects foul play. She is joined by her partner Pat Coombs in the investigation as they search for clues and connections.
At the same time, Jacob Felle, a British filmmaker, arrives in New York at the invitation of his brother-in-law, explorer Floyd Shaw. Jacob wants to connect with his estranged sister, Elizabeth, and to reconcile a long-buried family trauma. He learns that Elizabeth is going through one of her bad times and that she has dissolved her partnership in New Frontiers, an adventurers’ club she founded. Soon Jacobs search for his sister is on the same trajectory as Alex's search for the killer.
The writing is a bit uneven in this investigative thriller, however, the overall premise is intriguing, which is what kept me reading. There are some twists along the way, but the pacing is slow with a few bursts of action. One issue for me was a few details in the novel made it feel strangely dated now which leads to my caution to authors to leave social/political views on contemporary topics to themselves and out of books to extend the longevity of the novel.
I appreciated Alex and Jacob as characters. Alex had personal struggles, but tenaciously and insightfully pursued her investigative. Jacob was determined to find and uncover what was up with Elizabeth. Both of these characters, one professional and one amateur, are searching for the same answers about why target people on the list and who will be next.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2025/0...
After viewers of Ricky Talon's late night TV show are asked to vote for their choices, he shares a list of their chosen ten worst people in New York. It's all fun and games until two of the people on the list turn up dead. Their deaths appear to be by their own hand but recently widowed Special FBI Agent Alex Bedford suspects foul play. She is joined by her partner Pat Coombs in the investigation as they search for clues and connections.
At the same time, Jacob Felle, a British filmmaker, arrives in New York at the invitation of his brother-in-law, explorer Floyd Shaw. Jacob wants to connect with his estranged sister, Elizabeth, and to reconcile a long-buried family trauma. He learns that Elizabeth is going through one of her bad times and that she has dissolved her partnership in New Frontiers, an adventurers’ club she founded. Soon Jacobs search for his sister is on the same trajectory as Alex's search for the killer.
The writing is a bit uneven in this investigative thriller, however, the overall premise is intriguing, which is what kept me reading. There are some twists along the way, but the pacing is slow with a few bursts of action. One issue for me was a few details in the novel made it feel strangely dated now which leads to my caution to authors to leave social/political views on contemporary topics to themselves and out of books to extend the longevity of the novel.
I appreciated Alex and Jacob as characters. Alex had personal struggles, but tenaciously and insightfully pursued her investigative. Jacob was determined to find and uncover what was up with Elizabeth. Both of these characters, one professional and one amateur, are searching for the same answers about why target people on the list and who will be next.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2025/0...
March 17, 2025
This was a 3.5 read for me but I didn't round up mostly because of the construction of the narrative. The idea is simple. Ricky Talon, talk show host, put out a Ten Worst People in NYC list and two of the people 'committed suicide', only FBI agent Alex Bedsford doesn't think so and she begins to investigate along with her partner Pat.
Enter also Jacob Felles, a young British filmmaker who has been summoned to NYC by his brother in law Floyd because his estranged sister, Elizabeth, is in trouble. She has a history of mental health issues and violent outbreaks, only when Jacob gets there he learns his adventure loving, eco-activist sister is no longer with her coke addicted husband. She's also not wanting to talk to jacob but he's on a mission to save her.
Naturally these two plot lines are going to dovetail when it appears that maybe Elizabeth is involved and someone is definitely putting Jacob in the frame for the killings in spite him not being in the States for the first two (as there are more once he gets there) And if that was all the points of view we had this would be an easier read. Instead we have many different chapter with different povs including being in the heads of the ten worst people just as they are about to be killed (and it's second person pov which I hate).
These short chapters with multiple povs made this feel choppy. I would have liked to spend more time with Alex (with her knee pain and the loss of her husband at a relatively young age) and with Jacob who wants to save his big sister. I think that was a missed opportunity.
I did like the twists though. One I predicted, the other I did not so the mystery side of it was satisfying. I just wished it wasn't so choppy. It's a debut book so the potential is there.
I received this book in a Goodreads Giveaway.
Enter also Jacob Felles, a young British filmmaker who has been summoned to NYC by his brother in law Floyd because his estranged sister, Elizabeth, is in trouble. She has a history of mental health issues and violent outbreaks, only when Jacob gets there he learns his adventure loving, eco-activist sister is no longer with her coke addicted husband. She's also not wanting to talk to jacob but he's on a mission to save her.
Naturally these two plot lines are going to dovetail when it appears that maybe Elizabeth is involved and someone is definitely putting Jacob in the frame for the killings in spite him not being in the States for the first two (as there are more once he gets there) And if that was all the points of view we had this would be an easier read. Instead we have many different chapter with different povs including being in the heads of the ten worst people just as they are about to be killed (and it's second person pov which I hate).
These short chapters with multiple povs made this feel choppy. I would have liked to spend more time with Alex (with her knee pain and the loss of her husband at a relatively young age) and with Jacob who wants to save his big sister. I think that was a missed opportunity.
I did like the twists though. One I predicted, the other I did not so the mystery side of it was satisfying. I just wished it wasn't so choppy. It's a debut book so the potential is there.
I received this book in a Goodreads Giveaway.
May 10, 2025
The Ten Worst People in New York by Matt Plass
A Twisty, Fast-Paced Thriller That Keeps You Guessing
What if a late-night talk show host publicly named The Ten Worst People in New York—and then, one by one, they started turning up dead? That’s the chilling premise of this high-stakes thriller. When two of the so-called “worst” die in what appear to be suicides, an FBI agent suspects something far more sinister. As the body count rises, the race is on to uncover the truth before the next name on the list meets a deadly fate.
What I Loved:
The short, snappy chapters and multiple POVs create a propulsive, binge-worthy pace that keeps you engaged. The intricate game of cat and mouse is packed with red herrings, misdirection, and plenty of twists to keep even seasoned thriller readers on their toes.
Where It Fell Short:
With so many characters in play, not all of them felt fully developed. Some were introduced but never really given enough depth to make an impact, which made the story feel a bit cluttered at times. Maybe it should have been The Five Worst People in New York—a more streamlined cast might have packed a bigger punch. At certain points, I even had to pause and recalibrate to keep track of who was who. And while the ending took an unexpected turn, I’m still undecided on whether it was ingenious or a bit too much.
Final Verdict:
If you love twisty, high-stakes thrillers with short chapters, multiple perspectives, and a mystery that keeps you second-guessing, The Ten Worst People in New York is worth picking up. It’s a quick read—be prepared for a lot of moving pieces, a few underdeveloped characters, and the occasional moment of flipping back to remind yourself who’s who in this deadly game.
February 26, 2025
After a TV show's 'Ten Worst People' bit becomes a hit list for an unknown assassin, an FBI agent gets on the case across a dark and atmospheric version of New York. Meanwhile our hero, Jacob, gets dragged into the mystery as he travels to New York to escape his past and try to connect with his estranged - and strange - sister.
The Ten Worst People is exactly what's needed in a world of formulaic thrillers designed to plug the dopamine addictions of people who can't concentrate for more than five minutes. This is a hard-boiled and deeply atmospheric trip through the dark side of the Big Apple, but thoughtful and intelligent in its execution. Characters aren't caricatures and don't offer easy explanations too readily, instead the book builds its tension and its revelations at a pace that draws in the reader.
I note that other reviews have complained about the amount of characters. I don't know what other books they must be reading. There are a normal amount of a-list characters and a colourful and compelling list of background people populating this world, and each of the main characters is well differentiated, with a backstory and internal life that comes into view when it suits the story best.
I thoroughly enjoyed the language and style of the book, which is evocative of a seedy and scary version of its setting, subtle in its technique while not lacking for a dry and cynical wit.
Lee Childs called this book 'violent and gripping from the get-go'. It is. But it's also intelligent and written in a way that will make me look out for Plass's next books. There's a talent at work here and a style that goes beyond the average.
The Ten Worst People is exactly what's needed in a world of formulaic thrillers designed to plug the dopamine addictions of people who can't concentrate for more than five minutes. This is a hard-boiled and deeply atmospheric trip through the dark side of the Big Apple, but thoughtful and intelligent in its execution. Characters aren't caricatures and don't offer easy explanations too readily, instead the book builds its tension and its revelations at a pace that draws in the reader.
I note that other reviews have complained about the amount of characters. I don't know what other books they must be reading. There are a normal amount of a-list characters and a colourful and compelling list of background people populating this world, and each of the main characters is well differentiated, with a backstory and internal life that comes into view when it suits the story best.
I thoroughly enjoyed the language and style of the book, which is evocative of a seedy and scary version of its setting, subtle in its technique while not lacking for a dry and cynical wit.
Lee Childs called this book 'violent and gripping from the get-go'. It is. But it's also intelligent and written in a way that will make me look out for Plass's next books. There's a talent at work here and a style that goes beyond the average.
March 24, 2025
I don't think the story really matched the synopsis.
The Ten Worst People in New York is divided by two competing storylines that take a while to really mesh. In one, we follow FBI Special Agent Alex Bedford as she investigates the deaths of two men who were listed in a top ten list on a late night talk show. Their deaths happen early on in the story and are initially listed as suicides. However, Alex immediately links their deaths to murder with the most unrealistic amount of evidence I've ever read. Seriously, a pair of glasses and a piece of climbing equipment? That's some Sherlock Holmes shit. Despite the bizarre police work, Alex Bedford was incredibly likable but her character wasn't explored enough. Same with her partner, who only passes on a few messages and enjoys long lunches.
The second storyline revolves around Jacob Felle, a young man who comes to New York to find his estranged sister, who keeps dodging him at every turn. He discovers she is linked to New Frontiers, a now defunct group for mountain climbers. This is the only tenuous link between the two storylines that makes sense.
After the first two deaths, virtually nothing happens for the entire middle of the book. I was expecting more deaths, more connections but sadly nothing. I was beyond bored and confused. Finally, the ending did give some clarity but it took way too long to get there.
I did enjoy the writing and I was invested in the FBI investigation. I would read something else by this author or even another book with Alex Bedford but this one didn't work for me.
Netgalley ARC.
The Ten Worst People in New York is divided by two competing storylines that take a while to really mesh. In one, we follow FBI Special Agent Alex Bedford as she investigates the deaths of two men who were listed in a top ten list on a late night talk show. Their deaths happen early on in the story and are initially listed as suicides. However, Alex immediately links their deaths to murder with the most unrealistic amount of evidence I've ever read. Seriously, a pair of glasses and a piece of climbing equipment? That's some Sherlock Holmes shit. Despite the bizarre police work, Alex Bedford was incredibly likable but her character wasn't explored enough. Same with her partner, who only passes on a few messages and enjoys long lunches.
The second storyline revolves around Jacob Felle, a young man who comes to New York to find his estranged sister, who keeps dodging him at every turn. He discovers she is linked to New Frontiers, a now defunct group for mountain climbers. This is the only tenuous link between the two storylines that makes sense.
After the first two deaths, virtually nothing happens for the entire middle of the book. I was expecting more deaths, more connections but sadly nothing. I was beyond bored and confused. Finally, the ending did give some clarity but it took way too long to get there.
I did enjoy the writing and I was invested in the FBI investigation. I would read something else by this author or even another book with Alex Bedford but this one didn't work for me.
Netgalley ARC.
April 11, 2025
"The Ten Worst People in New York" by Matt Plass is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you hooked from start to finish. The story kicks off when Ricky Talon, host of the Talon Tonight show, releases a controversial list naming the "Ten Worst People in New York." The individuals featured on this list are not only humiliated but also deeply unsettled.
Among them is businessman Luca Benedetti, who ends up kidnapped. Luca had a troubled history with his tenant, Emily Garner. When she refused to move out of his apartment, he released cockroaches into the unit, forcing her to leave. He also harassed nine-year-old Danny Araya, a child suffering from polio. After Luca was found dead with an apparent suicide note, detectives begin to question whether his death is mere coincidence or a direct consequence of Talon’s infamous list.
Another person on the list, Councilor Tyrell Dixon, is later found dead as well. FBI Special Agent Alex Bedford is shaken by the discovery. Partnered with Agent Pat Coombs, the two launch a full-scale investigation. They interrogate Ricky Talon, trying to uncover whether there's a deeper connection between the victims and the names he exposed.
Suspicion intensifies with the arrival of British filmmaker Jacob Felle, who quickly becomes a prime suspect. As the body count rises, one question remains: who will be the next target—and why?
This is a refreshingly unique thriller. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot, which moves at a brisk pace with no dull moments. The author has done a brilliant job crafting a tense, suspenseful narrative. I couldn’t put it down.
Among them is businessman Luca Benedetti, who ends up kidnapped. Luca had a troubled history with his tenant, Emily Garner. When she refused to move out of his apartment, he released cockroaches into the unit, forcing her to leave. He also harassed nine-year-old Danny Araya, a child suffering from polio. After Luca was found dead with an apparent suicide note, detectives begin to question whether his death is mere coincidence or a direct consequence of Talon’s infamous list.
Another person on the list, Councilor Tyrell Dixon, is later found dead as well. FBI Special Agent Alex Bedford is shaken by the discovery. Partnered with Agent Pat Coombs, the two launch a full-scale investigation. They interrogate Ricky Talon, trying to uncover whether there's a deeper connection between the victims and the names he exposed.
Suspicion intensifies with the arrival of British filmmaker Jacob Felle, who quickly becomes a prime suspect. As the body count rises, one question remains: who will be the next target—and why?
This is a refreshingly unique thriller. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot, which moves at a brisk pace with no dull moments. The author has done a brilliant job crafting a tense, suspenseful narrative. I couldn’t put it down.
March 17, 2025
Big thanks to Booksparks, Crooked Lane Books, and Matt Plass for this ARC!
What happens when a list of the 10 worst people in NYC starts mysteriously dying, one by one? Some think it's karma or a vigilante killer, others are terrified — but one thing’s for sure: this thriller had me hooked from page one.
💥 What I loved most:
The premise is so good — think revenge thriller meets cat-and-mouse game. It gave me serious popcorn thriller vibes, the kind of book you fly through because you have to know who's behind it all. 🔥
I know some reviewers weren’t fans of the multiple POVs, but for me, it worked. The cast of characters kept things moving, and getting inside the heads of the people on the list? Kinda made me root for the vigilante in some cases... 👀
💫 What to expect:
✔️ Short, punchy chapters 📖
✔️ Multiple POVs (adds to the suspense!) 🧠
✔️ Revenge plot / vigilante justice 🗡️
⚡ How was the pacing?
There is a slower stretch in the middle, but honestly, I never found myself bored. The pace ramps up toward the end, leading to a wild finale.
⭐ Do I recommend it?
Okay, full honesty: the ending took a weird turn I didn’t fully love. BUT — I still enjoyed the ride and couldn’t put it down. If you’re into revenge thrillers, multiple POV books, or liked “The Collective” by Alison Gaylin, this is definitely one to check out.
What happens when a list of the 10 worst people in NYC starts mysteriously dying, one by one? Some think it's karma or a vigilante killer, others are terrified — but one thing’s for sure: this thriller had me hooked from page one.
💥 What I loved most:
The premise is so good — think revenge thriller meets cat-and-mouse game. It gave me serious popcorn thriller vibes, the kind of book you fly through because you have to know who's behind it all. 🔥
I know some reviewers weren’t fans of the multiple POVs, but for me, it worked. The cast of characters kept things moving, and getting inside the heads of the people on the list? Kinda made me root for the vigilante in some cases... 👀
💫 What to expect:
✔️ Short, punchy chapters 📖
✔️ Multiple POVs (adds to the suspense!) 🧠
✔️ Revenge plot / vigilante justice 🗡️
⚡ How was the pacing?
There is a slower stretch in the middle, but honestly, I never found myself bored. The pace ramps up toward the end, leading to a wild finale.
⭐ Do I recommend it?
Okay, full honesty: the ending took a weird turn I didn’t fully love. BUT — I still enjoyed the ride and couldn’t put it down. If you’re into revenge thrillers, multiple POV books, or liked “The Collective” by Alison Gaylin, this is definitely one to check out.
March 24, 2025
There’s a new tough smart female FBI agent in town and I really liked Alex Bedford and hope to see more of her! A complex plot with several POVs, subplots and twists but the payoff ending was worth it. I definitely was convinced I knew what was happening only to have it turned on its head several times.
This psychological thriller will make you question the nature of justice… and revenge. The ten worst people in New York are dying, one after the other.
A late-night TV chat show feature, The Ten Worst People in New York, is the talk of the town. When a real estate mogul on the Ten Worst list jumps to his death, it could be a coincidence. But after a corrupt NYC councilor, also on the list, dies suspiciously, recently widowed Special FBI Agent Alex Bedford suspects foul play.
Young British filmmaker Jacob Felle arrives in New York to connect with his estranged sister, Elizabeth, and to reconcile a long-buried family trauma. But Alex and Jacob are on a collision course, and when Jacob becomes a suspect, the two find themselves in a race to unravel the mystery before even more people die. Both Alex and Jacob must confront their worst fears and put their lives on the line as they try to find the answer to two key questions:
Why are the killers targeting the ten worst list? And who will be next to die?
This psychological thriller will make you question the nature of justice… and revenge. The ten worst people in New York are dying, one after the other.
A late-night TV chat show feature, The Ten Worst People in New York, is the talk of the town. When a real estate mogul on the Ten Worst list jumps to his death, it could be a coincidence. But after a corrupt NYC councilor, also on the list, dies suspiciously, recently widowed Special FBI Agent Alex Bedford suspects foul play.
Young British filmmaker Jacob Felle arrives in New York to connect with his estranged sister, Elizabeth, and to reconcile a long-buried family trauma. But Alex and Jacob are on a collision course, and when Jacob becomes a suspect, the two find themselves in a race to unravel the mystery before even more people die. Both Alex and Jacob must confront their worst fears and put their lives on the line as they try to find the answer to two key questions:
Why are the killers targeting the ten worst list? And who will be next to die?
March 3, 2025
digital arc was provided by Netgalley and publisher
What a ride!
Synopsis
Two people voted as The Ten Worst People in New York is already dead and Special Agent Alex Bedford definitely doesn't want a third dead people. Even if the people on the list are all disgusting human being. Jacob was invited by his brother in law after four years of estrangement. He definitely didn't sign up to get involved in the case. Who's gonna die next? And more importantly, who keeps killing the people on the list?
Commentaries
The book was such a delight! I savor every page slowly, that's why I spent like almost a week to get it finished. All characters are enthraling, especially Alex. And yes, sometimes I wanna hit Jacob with a pan because he's so dense, but I guess he just loves his sister so much.
TTWPiNY is filled with questions, keeping me guessing, and even when it was as clear as day, I second guessed myself lol. It has action, mystery, and compelling plot that will make you want to sit until it's done.
Not everything in the book is tied in a nice bow, but the ending is good too as we left the leftover protagonists with the personal problem and how they would resolve it.
What a ride!
Synopsis
Two people voted as The Ten Worst People in New York is already dead and Special Agent Alex Bedford definitely doesn't want a third dead people. Even if the people on the list are all disgusting human being. Jacob was invited by his brother in law after four years of estrangement. He definitely didn't sign up to get involved in the case. Who's gonna die next? And more importantly, who keeps killing the people on the list?
Commentaries
The book was such a delight! I savor every page slowly, that's why I spent like almost a week to get it finished. All characters are enthraling, especially Alex. And yes, sometimes I wanna hit Jacob with a pan because he's so dense, but I guess he just loves his sister so much.
TTWPiNY is filled with questions, keeping me guessing, and even when it was as clear as day, I second guessed myself lol. It has action, mystery, and compelling plot that will make you want to sit until it's done.
Not everything in the book is tied in a nice bow, but the ending is good too as we left the leftover protagonists with the personal problem and how they would resolve it.
December 8, 2024
I was really intrigued by the premise of this book—the concept was fresh, and the idea of a dark mystery centered around a 'worst people' list sounded like a thrilling ride. Unfortunately, the execution didn’t live up to the promise.
The plot twists were wild, and I appreciated the effort to keep the reader guessing. However, between those twists, the pacing dragged, and I often found myself losing interest. The main character, FBI Agent Alex Bedford, was likable and one of the better aspects of the story, but the sheer number of other characters—especially those from the List—became overwhelming and hard to keep track of.
Many of these characters seemed like they had potential but were left underdeveloped, making it difficult to connect with them or care about their fates. Add to this a dry writing style that lacked the emotional depth or tension to truly grip me, and the book became more of a chore than an enjoyable read.
While the premise and twists kept me from giving up entirely, I can't say really enjoyed it. It just didn’t click for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
The plot twists were wild, and I appreciated the effort to keep the reader guessing. However, between those twists, the pacing dragged, and I often found myself losing interest. The main character, FBI Agent Alex Bedford, was likable and one of the better aspects of the story, but the sheer number of other characters—especially those from the List—became overwhelming and hard to keep track of.
Many of these characters seemed like they had potential but were left underdeveloped, making it difficult to connect with them or care about their fates. Add to this a dry writing style that lacked the emotional depth or tension to truly grip me, and the book became more of a chore than an enjoyable read.
While the premise and twists kept me from giving up entirely, I can't say really enjoyed it. It just didn’t click for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
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