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The Spite Game
Getting even is a long game...
Mercilessly bullied in high school, Ava knows she needs to put the past behind her and move on, but she can't - not until she's exacted precise, catastrophic revenge on the people who hurt her the most.
First, she watches Saanvi. Flawlessly chic and working hard at a top architectural firm, Saanvi has it all together on the surface. But everyone does bad things when they think no one is watching and Ava only wants what's fair - to destroy Saanvi's life the way her own was destroyed.
Next, she watches Cass. She's there as Cass tries on wedding dresses, she's there when Cass picks out a cake, she's there when Cass betrays her fiancé. She's the reason Cass's entire future comes crashing down.
Finally, Ava watches Mel. Mel was always the ringleader and if anyone has to pay, it's her. But one tiny slipup and Ava realises the truth: Mel knows she's being watched, and she's ready to play Ava's games to the bitter end.
Mercilessly bullied in high school, Ava knows she needs to put the past behind her and move on, but she can't - not until she's exacted precise, catastrophic revenge on the people who hurt her the most.
First, she watches Saanvi. Flawlessly chic and working hard at a top architectural firm, Saanvi has it all together on the surface. But everyone does bad things when they think no one is watching and Ava only wants what's fair - to destroy Saanvi's life the way her own was destroyed.
Next, she watches Cass. She's there as Cass tries on wedding dresses, she's there when Cass picks out a cake, she's there when Cass betrays her fiancé. She's the reason Cass's entire future comes crashing down.
Finally, Ava watches Mel. Mel was always the ringleader and if anyone has to pay, it's her. But one tiny slipup and Ava realises the truth: Mel knows she's being watched, and she's ready to play Ava's games to the bitter end.
352 pages, Paperback
First published October 30, 2018
43 people are currently reading
3129 people want to read
About the author
Anna Snoekstra
13 books467 followersAnna Snoekstra was born in Canberra, Australia in 1988. She studied Creative Writing and Cinema at Melbourne University, followed by Screenwriting at RMIT University.
Anna's short films and music videos have screened around the world. She has written an array of published and award winning short fiction. Her debut novel ONLY DAUGHTER was published in September 2016 (Mira). Her second novel LITTLE SECRETS will be published November 2017 (Mira).
Anna's short films and music videos have screened around the world. She has written an array of published and award winning short fiction. Her debut novel ONLY DAUGHTER was published in September 2016 (Mira). Her second novel LITTLE SECRETS will be published November 2017 (Mira).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 284 reviews
October 4, 2022
This has got to be the most fun book I've BR with Dennis (@scaredstraightreads) to date. We both started the same morning, and both finished that same evening within minutes of each other. Just call us N'SYNC. Both of us had been craving a certain type of book lately; it didn't have to be perfect, just compulsive in nature and entertaining to no end. Guys, this was the perfect novel to pick up in meeting those criteria. It wasn't perfect, and I can see why it won't be for some readers, but if you're open minded to a different feel of storytelling, this may be the book for you!
The plot is pretty detailed on the synopsis, and there's actually not much of a mystery here to solve, which places The Spite Game in a different category than I originally thought it would. You pretty much know everything that is going to happen in this book upfront, just not with the gritty details filled in. This particular reason was why I enjoyed TSG so much I reckon; there was no worrying about trying to be fooled with a whodunnit, I simply got to sit back and turn the pages while Ms. Snoekstra did the rest. This was my third read from her and I've come to realize I've enjoyed everything she has to offer so far.
I’m really surprised that this book has a relatively low overall average rating on GR. I may be way off base, but I certainly enjoyed the wild ride it offered. Perhaps the almost YA feel it provides isn’t appealing to the exclusively adult fiction crowd, but if you are open to flashbacks being narrated by 17-18 year olds, you may find this one to be the compulsive, nasty little gem of an escape that I did. Highly recommended as a compulsive, read it in one sitting, kinda book.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
The plot is pretty detailed on the synopsis, and there's actually not much of a mystery here to solve, which places The Spite Game in a different category than I originally thought it would. You pretty much know everything that is going to happen in this book upfront, just not with the gritty details filled in. This particular reason was why I enjoyed TSG so much I reckon; there was no worrying about trying to be fooled with a whodunnit, I simply got to sit back and turn the pages while Ms. Snoekstra did the rest. This was my third read from her and I've come to realize I've enjoyed everything she has to offer so far.
I’m really surprised that this book has a relatively low overall average rating on GR. I may be way off base, but I certainly enjoyed the wild ride it offered. Perhaps the almost YA feel it provides isn’t appealing to the exclusively adult fiction crowd, but if you are open to flashbacks being narrated by 17-18 year olds, you may find this one to be the compulsive, nasty little gem of an escape that I did. Highly recommended as a compulsive, read it in one sitting, kinda book.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
September 1, 2019
Well, that was an interesting book! Ava was bullied in high school by her "friends" and slowly, over the years, she's determined to get revenge for herself, make them pay. It starts off with little things, just to throw them, but it starts to escalate into something a lot more. And then there's no going back...
I really enjoyed this book, coming fully invested in Ava's little games. It jumps around a bit, which can be a bit disconcerting, but this doesn't ultimately distract from overall gratification. It's not totally polished, but then, being from Ava's point of view it shouldn't be. She's a flawed character, not really likeable, but her story drags you in. If you like psychological dramas from an imperfect characters point of view, this book might suit you.
3.5 stars rounded up.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book, coming fully invested in Ava's little games. It jumps around a bit, which can be a bit disconcerting, but this doesn't ultimately distract from overall gratification. It's not totally polished, but then, being from Ava's point of view it shouldn't be. She's a flawed character, not really likeable, but her story drags you in. If you like psychological dramas from an imperfect characters point of view, this book might suit you.
3.5 stars rounded up.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 7, 2019
My reviews can also be seen at: https://deesradreadsandreviews.wordpr...
“Everyone does bad things when no one is watching”
The book begins with the main character, Ava telling us that we may not want to hear her story, but if we want her confession then we will have to listen. We are told what she was like before, back when she was “normal”. She never thought she would end up where she is now…
She says that it all started in the girls changing room.
Ava just wanted to be friends with the popular girls. She always felt like she was in the background. When Saanvi, Cass, and their ringleader Mel (Melissa) Moore started paying attention to her, Ava was thrilled. But was it really friendship? Some of the things they did and said were terrible. But no matter how badly they treated Ava, she kept coming back for more.
All these years later, Ava still can’t get over what they did to her. Will Ava get revenge on the people who made her life a living hell?
This was a quick read but one I find hard to classify. I don’t think it’s really a thriller or suspense novel, although there were definitely some chilling moments. It does have a lot of psychological elements to it, which I always enjoy. However, I think I just expected something a bit different after reading the synopsis.
Most of the story is told through flashbacks and Ava’s point of view. I wasn't always sure which timeframe I was reading. I eventually caught on, but there were a few times I felt like I was reading the end of something without knowing what happened in the middle. Although there were a couple of things that bothered me, I was still intrigued and curious to see how everything was going to come together in the end.
Overall, I thought “The Spite Game” was an interesting read. A fast and creepy revenge story with the kind of characters many readers love to hate. I am looking forward to seeing what Anna Snoekstra writes next.
I'd like to thank Mira Books for a copy of this novel. All opinions stated are my own.
“Everyone does bad things when no one is watching”
The book begins with the main character, Ava telling us that we may not want to hear her story, but if we want her confession then we will have to listen. We are told what she was like before, back when she was “normal”. She never thought she would end up where she is now…
She says that it all started in the girls changing room.
Ava just wanted to be friends with the popular girls. She always felt like she was in the background. When Saanvi, Cass, and their ringleader Mel (Melissa) Moore started paying attention to her, Ava was thrilled. But was it really friendship? Some of the things they did and said were terrible. But no matter how badly they treated Ava, she kept coming back for more.
All these years later, Ava still can’t get over what they did to her. Will Ava get revenge on the people who made her life a living hell?
This was a quick read but one I find hard to classify. I don’t think it’s really a thriller or suspense novel, although there were definitely some chilling moments. It does have a lot of psychological elements to it, which I always enjoy. However, I think I just expected something a bit different after reading the synopsis.
Most of the story is told through flashbacks and Ava’s point of view. I wasn't always sure which timeframe I was reading. I eventually caught on, but there were a few times I felt like I was reading the end of something without knowing what happened in the middle. Although there were a couple of things that bothered me, I was still intrigued and curious to see how everything was going to come together in the end.
Overall, I thought “The Spite Game” was an interesting read. A fast and creepy revenge story with the kind of characters many readers love to hate. I am looking forward to seeing what Anna Snoekstra writes next.
I'd like to thank Mira Books for a copy of this novel. All opinions stated are my own.
January 4, 2021
"I don’t think I’m the right person to ask about being normal, but I’ve always thought the best way to live is to embrace your crazy. I’ll tell you now it’s always a hell of a lot more fun."
The Spite Game by Anna Snoekstra
I stayed up all night to finish this little gem. That's the type of book it is. Hooks you from the first page.
The Spite Game, by Anna Snoekstra, differs a bit from your average book about bullying. This book goes further, as it shows the ramifications of what bullying someone as a child can do to their psyche as they enter adulthood. This was just an outstanding piece of literature. It really pulls you in.
So I will not do a whole plot recap as so many others have. But in short..Ava was bullied as a kid and not just by anyone. By the ones she loved the most..her best friends.
What they did to her..their worst act of cruelty..has damaged her so severely she cannot move forward in her life as an adult. She is locked in a cold and tragic stupor of anguish that does not let her go for a minute. All her choices are based on the events of her childhood. And now all she really wants to do is get back at that malevolent group who were both her loves and her tormentors.
The Spite Game is a painful read. If you have ever been bullied..I have..if you have ever had close friends seemingly turn on you..I have..it will be even more painful. What I really adore about the book is how inside Ava's head the writer gets. It is done beautifully. And for me, it was impossible not to care about Ava and want things to turn out well.
I agree with the reviewers who said the book jumps around to much. I considered only giving it a four because of that reason but I just can't. It was written so well and is such a sad and also haunting story. It was not a book I ever expected t o rate five stars. I'd thought this would me lighter and more YA than it was.
All the characters had depth to them. If there was one frustration for me..LIGHT SPOILER HERE: It was that I wanted to know more about what motivated Mel. I believe she was freaked out by the event that happened between her and Ava in the early morning hours(no spoiler) and could not handle it. But that is just my opinion. We never really know.
Ava has labeled herself a psychopath and just like with Jane Doe, I do not feel that label is true. I feel that heavy duty therapy may have saved Ava before she started on her revenge path..but maybe not. She obviously was deeply traumatised and my heart went out to her.
The final resolution? Well here is a spoiler:
No matter how deeply someone hurts you, I do not believe murder is the answer. I will admit that, before Mel, I was having a field day with these little acts of revenge. I did, however somewhat like Cass. But man did I feel for Ava. I am glad that Ava finds at least some salvation at the end.
I also enjoyed the writer's notes about how this came to be written. I think this is a creepy, intense, touching read that I would highly recommend for anyone interested in the subject matter.
The Spite Game by Anna Snoekstra
I stayed up all night to finish this little gem. That's the type of book it is. Hooks you from the first page.
The Spite Game, by Anna Snoekstra, differs a bit from your average book about bullying. This book goes further, as it shows the ramifications of what bullying someone as a child can do to their psyche as they enter adulthood. This was just an outstanding piece of literature. It really pulls you in.
So I will not do a whole plot recap as so many others have. But in short..Ava was bullied as a kid and not just by anyone. By the ones she loved the most..her best friends.
What they did to her..their worst act of cruelty..has damaged her so severely she cannot move forward in her life as an adult. She is locked in a cold and tragic stupor of anguish that does not let her go for a minute. All her choices are based on the events of her childhood. And now all she really wants to do is get back at that malevolent group who were both her loves and her tormentors.
The Spite Game is a painful read. If you have ever been bullied..I have..if you have ever had close friends seemingly turn on you..I have..it will be even more painful. What I really adore about the book is how inside Ava's head the writer gets. It is done beautifully. And for me, it was impossible not to care about Ava and want things to turn out well.
I agree with the reviewers who said the book jumps around to much. I considered only giving it a four because of that reason but I just can't. It was written so well and is such a sad and also haunting story. It was not a book I ever expected t o rate five stars. I'd thought this would me lighter and more YA than it was.
All the characters had depth to them. If there was one frustration for me..LIGHT SPOILER HERE: It was that I wanted to know more about what motivated Mel. I believe she was freaked out by the event that happened between her and Ava in the early morning hours(no spoiler) and could not handle it. But that is just my opinion. We never really know.
Ava has labeled herself a psychopath and just like with Jane Doe, I do not feel that label is true. I feel that heavy duty therapy may have saved Ava before she started on her revenge path..but maybe not. She obviously was deeply traumatised and my heart went out to her.
The final resolution? Well here is a spoiler:
No matter how deeply someone hurts you, I do not believe murder is the answer. I will admit that, before Mel, I was having a field day with these little acts of revenge. I did, however somewhat like Cass. But man did I feel for Ava. I am glad that Ava finds at least some salvation at the end.
I also enjoyed the writer's notes about how this came to be written. I think this is a creepy, intense, touching read that I would highly recommend for anyone interested in the subject matter.
November 8, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
As far as the social strata went, we were barely in the equation. We were cooler than the kids with chronic acne who played cards in the back of the library, but not by much… I felt ready. I wanted to see the true potential of my life, to have fun and get drunk and kiss boys and skip school. I wanted to see what I was capable of. I was just waiting for my in.
There had been always been an ache in my chest. I hadn’t known it was there until now, when it was gone. I knew all I had to do was relax, not say or do the wrong thing, and every moment would be entirely perfect… As long as I didn’t muck it up, things would stay golden… I wanted to pause this moment, because I knew, inevitably, I’d somehow do something to ruin it.
I don’t think I’m the right person to ask about being normal, but I’ve always thought the best way to live is to embrace your crazy. I’ll tell you now it’s always a hell of a lot more fun.
I had worried so much about being a “psycho,” but maybe I shouldn’t have. I’d be happier if I was one, that was for sure. If I was a psycho, I’d do something to Mel. I’d get even. I’d been worrying so much that there was something terribly wrong with me. But maybe the thing that was wrong with me was the only thing that was right.
My Review:
As someone who was bullied in high school, I can honestly attest to the brilliance and keenly observant insights tucked into this author’s well-crafted tale. High school was over forty years ago for me, but the painful sting of personal humiliation remains ever so sharp, regardless of the massive amount of years and tons of dust in between. I was absorbed by this emotive and cunningly written tale. The cleverly constructed narrative was laced with captivating and compelling characters and active with engaging, dynamic, and heart-squeezing scenarios. I required considerable motivation and enticement to put my Kindle down for those pesky chores like eating, sleeping, and adulting. I know it may not the politically correct or altruistic thing to confess, but I reveled in the ending with a glorious fist pump.
As far as the social strata went, we were barely in the equation. We were cooler than the kids with chronic acne who played cards in the back of the library, but not by much… I felt ready. I wanted to see the true potential of my life, to have fun and get drunk and kiss boys and skip school. I wanted to see what I was capable of. I was just waiting for my in.
There had been always been an ache in my chest. I hadn’t known it was there until now, when it was gone. I knew all I had to do was relax, not say or do the wrong thing, and every moment would be entirely perfect… As long as I didn’t muck it up, things would stay golden… I wanted to pause this moment, because I knew, inevitably, I’d somehow do something to ruin it.
I don’t think I’m the right person to ask about being normal, but I’ve always thought the best way to live is to embrace your crazy. I’ll tell you now it’s always a hell of a lot more fun.
I had worried so much about being a “psycho,” but maybe I shouldn’t have. I’d be happier if I was one, that was for sure. If I was a psycho, I’d do something to Mel. I’d get even. I’d been worrying so much that there was something terribly wrong with me. But maybe the thing that was wrong with me was the only thing that was right.
My Review:
As someone who was bullied in high school, I can honestly attest to the brilliance and keenly observant insights tucked into this author’s well-crafted tale. High school was over forty years ago for me, but the painful sting of personal humiliation remains ever so sharp, regardless of the massive amount of years and tons of dust in between. I was absorbed by this emotive and cunningly written tale. The cleverly constructed narrative was laced with captivating and compelling characters and active with engaging, dynamic, and heart-squeezing scenarios. I required considerable motivation and enticement to put my Kindle down for those pesky chores like eating, sleeping, and adulting. I know it may not the politically correct or altruistic thing to confess, but I reveled in the ending with a glorious fist pump.
September 16, 2020
3.5 stars
Ava is always the outsider at school she is being bullied constantly by a group of girls it all starts in the change room where they start calling her names, like PSYCHO which she doesn't like , she eventually hangs around them & thinks that everything is fine but underneath it isn't .
As the prose progresses she seeks revenge on all who bullied her one by one she takes them down , i found this to be a slow burn which builds up to a chilling conclusion, i felt for Ava as she had a bad home life, she had a sister Bea who was two years older who suffered Epilepsy , a mother who never was around.
MY THOUGHTS
I liked this book but at times i thought it dragged, i didn't lose interest as i wanted to know how the ending panned out, Evan was a likable character even though Ava was different he didn't care as his love for her was undeniable, like i said it was a slow burn so be prepared. The girl were a pack of bitches i could have throttled them people can be so cruel, i know as i was bullied myself in high school for 4 years it made me stronger though all in all a satisfying read.
Ava is always the outsider at school she is being bullied constantly by a group of girls it all starts in the change room where they start calling her names, like PSYCHO which she doesn't like , she eventually hangs around them & thinks that everything is fine but underneath it isn't .
As the prose progresses she seeks revenge on all who bullied her one by one she takes them down , i found this to be a slow burn which builds up to a chilling conclusion, i felt for Ava as she had a bad home life, she had a sister Bea who was two years older who suffered Epilepsy , a mother who never was around.
MY THOUGHTS
I liked this book but at times i thought it dragged, i didn't lose interest as i wanted to know how the ending panned out, Evan was a likable character even though Ava was different he didn't care as his love for her was undeniable, like i said it was a slow burn so be prepared. The girl were a pack of bitches i could have throttled them people can be so cruel, i know as i was bullied myself in high school for 4 years it made me stronger though all in all a satisfying read.
September 25, 2018
I have really enjoyed previous books by Anna Snoekstra and this one jumped out at me and I couldn't wait to read it. It did not let me down, although it wasn,t as good as her previous book Little Secrets. It was a fun, fast but at times disturbing read with some very nasty characters.
We all know the mean girls at school. These 3 girls were just hideous! But at school Ava wanted nothing more than to be friends with them, the popular girls. Time and time again she let them make fun of her and bully her. We learn about this time at school through flashbacks. Ava is unable to put the past behind her and sets out to get revenge.
Thanks to Harlequin - Mira and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased
We all know the mean girls at school. These 3 girls were just hideous! But at school Ava wanted nothing more than to be friends with them, the popular girls. Time and time again she let them make fun of her and bully her. We learn about this time at school through flashbacks. Ava is unable to put the past behind her and sets out to get revenge.
Thanks to Harlequin - Mira and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased
July 1, 2019
Yeah, this book was not great.
The blurb sounded fantastic, and I decided to read it despite it's OK rating. I shouldn't have.
The constantly changing timelines were super confusing. If you're going to jump back and forth and forward and back again, you need to at least give the reader SOME idea of what year you're in. It was so disjointed and confusing. That on top of a very lackluster revenge scheme made me wish I hadn't bothered with it.
The blurb sounded fantastic, and I decided to read it despite it's OK rating. I shouldn't have.
The constantly changing timelines were super confusing. If you're going to jump back and forth and forward and back again, you need to at least give the reader SOME idea of what year you're in. It was so disjointed and confusing. That on top of a very lackluster revenge scheme made me wish I hadn't bothered with it.
October 29, 2018
A solid 4 stars for me. The Spite Game switches frequently from past to present and centers around main character Ava. Ava wanted nothing more than to be friends with these three girls in high school; girls I think of as the “mean girls”. Girls that torment the weak, the chubby and the different. So desperate to be friends with these girls, Ava let’s herself get bullied and treated like crap by them. Adult Ava wasn’t able to let the past go and she sets out to seek revenge on the three girls. A very interesting book- highly recommended to fans of mystery/thriller books.
October 18, 2018
Ava was terribly bullied in high school by three girls she idolized: Melissa, Cass, Saanvi. One particular incident so traumatized her that she cannot move on and years later, she finds herself unable to get past it. So she watches her former classmates--online and in real life--and she plots. If she can just find a way to get even, Ava thinks, then she can move on with her own life. But Ava's stalking threatens to overtake her life and perhaps her sanity. She finds herself in a police station, waiting to tell her story to a detective. What has Ava done?
"The bad thing inside of me took root there. Like mold, it grew in that hot moist place. You won't want to hear any of this. My story. I know that. But if you want me to confess, then you'll have to listen."
This one reminded me of a lesser version of Roz Nay's Our Little Secret, where so much of the tale is our main character telling her woes and recapping her life while in a police station. I didn't love Ava or hate her: I often felt sorry for her. Her inability to move past high school basically crippled her entire life, and her revenge mission is all she has.
This was a weird book. It switches in time frequently, going between whatever the present moment is and then Ava remembering moments in high school. I found the timeframe to be confusing at times. Ava's singular focus on her former classmates--and getting even--could be frustrating at moments, yet the book was also oddly compelling and somewhat addictive. It certainly did a good job at capturing the meanness of high school girls. What a terrible time that is.
"I was so naive, so ready to give those girls everything: my loyalty, my trust, my devoted friendship. I was ready to spill every secret I ever had, to follow them to the ends of the earth. I guess the last bit turned out to be true, in some ways."
It was a creepy read sometimes. I guessed the ending a bit early, but that didn't really make it any less enjoyable. Overall, I found this one a little odd and a little off-putting. It was a strange read, with a pointed focus on its main character (and her own mission). Still, it was rather readable. 3.5 stars.
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I received a copy of this novel from the publisher and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review (thank you!); it is available everywhere as of 10/30/2018.
"The bad thing inside of me took root there. Like mold, it grew in that hot moist place. You won't want to hear any of this. My story. I know that. But if you want me to confess, then you'll have to listen."
This one reminded me of a lesser version of Roz Nay's Our Little Secret, where so much of the tale is our main character telling her woes and recapping her life while in a police station. I didn't love Ava or hate her: I often felt sorry for her. Her inability to move past high school basically crippled her entire life, and her revenge mission is all she has.
This was a weird book. It switches in time frequently, going between whatever the present moment is and then Ava remembering moments in high school. I found the timeframe to be confusing at times. Ava's singular focus on her former classmates--and getting even--could be frustrating at moments, yet the book was also oddly compelling and somewhat addictive. It certainly did a good job at capturing the meanness of high school girls. What a terrible time that is.
"I was so naive, so ready to give those girls everything: my loyalty, my trust, my devoted friendship. I was ready to spill every secret I ever had, to follow them to the ends of the earth. I guess the last bit turned out to be true, in some ways."
It was a creepy read sometimes. I guessed the ending a bit early, but that didn't really make it any less enjoyable. Overall, I found this one a little odd and a little off-putting. It was a strange read, with a pointed focus on its main character (and her own mission). Still, it was rather readable. 3.5 stars.
Blog ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Google+ ~ Instagram
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review (thank you!); it is available everywhere as of 10/30/2018.
October 21, 2018
This is a story of a girl, Ava, who gets revenge on a group of people who bullied and played tricks on to her in high school. It goes back and forth between past and present.
I was hoping for a new spin on this narrative but it kept to the same plot devices as other books with revenge plots. Ava presents some psychopathic tendencies but so does almost everyone else in the story so the shock value of her deeds are lessened.
The ending wasn’t shocking nor unexpected. Those who enjoy revenge plots may like this, but I would recommend passing.
As an aside, my advanced copy had multiple grammatical and spelling errors. Sometimes the completely wrong word was used (think instead of thing) or a necessary word is missing (i.e. as). I’m hoping these get caught before the final copy gets published.
I was hoping for a new spin on this narrative but it kept to the same plot devices as other books with revenge plots. Ava presents some psychopathic tendencies but so does almost everyone else in the story so the shock value of her deeds are lessened.
The ending wasn’t shocking nor unexpected. Those who enjoy revenge plots may like this, but I would recommend passing.
As an aside, my advanced copy had multiple grammatical and spelling errors. Sometimes the completely wrong word was used (think instead of thing) or a necessary word is missing (i.e. as). I’m hoping these get caught before the final copy gets published.
June 8, 2025
I read this cover to cover over a few hours, one of those great books that lets you delve into it until you come back up for air. Riveting.
I don’t know what genre this falls into. It’s got early YA elements in it as teenagers are the focus but as the characters grow into young women it’s more of a psychological thriller with some dark overtones.
You know that gang of girls in high school that other girls yearned to be friends with? The ones that even if they treated you like shit, sometimes they were nice to you and you grabbed onto that like a lifeline. Yeah, let some of them here.
This book features the darkest, mean side of girls that sadly is very real out there. The ones who target the weak, the different, the pudgy girl in PE who doesn’t want to get changed as she knows they’ll laugh at her rolls of fat she can’t shift.
I don’t know about you but I knew a bunch of girls who made my life hell in high school (the ones who wanted to FB friend me like nothing happened years later..umm no). I fantasised about their demise, sweet revenge, making them feel like crap like I did.
This book both had me loving the main character Ava and then fearing her, having her confuse me then wanting to hug her. In fact all characters are really well done. I really felt I got to know each one, dark sides and all. It’s a book that both fascinated me and kept me desperate for the next chapter.
can’t share much about the plot as it would ruin it for you. It gets twisted and clever at the same time. There are very damaged people everywhere and it’s a novel that I don’t think could ever be far off reality.
I like the author’s writing style, I love the imagination put into it, the twists that are subtle yet shocking at the same time. Nothing fluffy about this tale at all. It’s really a book that hooks you in.
Mean girls.Just what do their lives hold beyond high school? What do the ones who suffered with their bullying and psychological torment wonder about them now? Do THEY feel guilt? Dear reader, you’ll need to get it to find out.
Don’t be fooled this is no typical bullying tale. Oh no, it’s SO much more than that!
I highly recommend this one. I think any reader could enjoy it and many, like me will read it in one sitting. Tell me how the ending made you feel once you read it okay? 5 stars, get this on your to-read list for sure!
Many thanks to the publisher, Mira Books for an ARC. All review opinions are my own and totally unbiased.
Thanks SO much for taking a little time to read my review. Your likes and comments mean a lot to me. 😻
Feel free to add me as a friend or follow me for more book reviews. You can browse through my many great books reviewed for your next awesome book to enjoy.
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I don’t know what genre this falls into. It’s got early YA elements in it as teenagers are the focus but as the characters grow into young women it’s more of a psychological thriller with some dark overtones.
You know that gang of girls in high school that other girls yearned to be friends with? The ones that even if they treated you like shit, sometimes they were nice to you and you grabbed onto that like a lifeline. Yeah, let some of them here.
This book features the darkest, mean side of girls that sadly is very real out there. The ones who target the weak, the different, the pudgy girl in PE who doesn’t want to get changed as she knows they’ll laugh at her rolls of fat she can’t shift.
I don’t know about you but I knew a bunch of girls who made my life hell in high school (the ones who wanted to FB friend me like nothing happened years later..umm no). I fantasised about their demise, sweet revenge, making them feel like crap like I did.
This book both had me loving the main character Ava and then fearing her, having her confuse me then wanting to hug her. In fact all characters are really well done. I really felt I got to know each one, dark sides and all. It’s a book that both fascinated me and kept me desperate for the next chapter.
can’t share much about the plot as it would ruin it for you. It gets twisted and clever at the same time. There are very damaged people everywhere and it’s a novel that I don’t think could ever be far off reality.
I like the author’s writing style, I love the imagination put into it, the twists that are subtle yet shocking at the same time. Nothing fluffy about this tale at all. It’s really a book that hooks you in.
Mean girls.Just what do their lives hold beyond high school? What do the ones who suffered with their bullying and psychological torment wonder about them now? Do THEY feel guilt? Dear reader, you’ll need to get it to find out.
Don’t be fooled this is no typical bullying tale. Oh no, it’s SO much more than that!
I highly recommend this one. I think any reader could enjoy it and many, like me will read it in one sitting. Tell me how the ending made you feel once you read it okay? 5 stars, get this on your to-read list for sure!
Many thanks to the publisher, Mira Books for an ARC. All review opinions are my own and totally unbiased.
Thanks SO much for taking a little time to read my review. Your likes and comments mean a lot to me. 😻
Feel free to add me as a friend or follow me for more book reviews. You can browse through my many great books reviewed for your next awesome book to enjoy.
If you are an Author or Publisher and you’d like me to consider reading and reviewing your book(s) please just message me.
September 7, 2018
Ava's world came tumbling down when she befriended the three mean girls of her high school class. Saanvi, Cass, and Mel were the trio of trouble in their school hierarchical order. After Ava helps Mel by sabotaging someone who has wronged her, the group invites her into their social circle. Never really feeling fully immersed into the group, Ava questions the dynamic between the clique. After one night of partying, the girls decide to backstab Ava, and destroy her social life completely. Ava is now a target of habitual bullying, not only by Cass, Saanvi, and Mel, but also by the student body. Ava's high school career is coming to a close, but she will have to live with this pain for the rest of her life. Ava is now older, wiser, and more cunning. She has decided to show these frienemies of hers that what happens in the past can shape your future and she is out for revenge. As she watches in the shadows, Ava starts gathering as much information about Saanvi, Cass, and Mel, so she can destroy them.
The Spite Game is one of those psychological suspense novels that knowing less about is important. Don't read too much into the plot, because the best thing about this book is that the slowly developing suspense builds as each chapter goes on. It gets extremely gripping and utterly suspense-filled once you get into the action, and it will hold your attention until the end. After reading countless YA novels dealing with high school theatrics, The Spite Game is high school drama story that I've been looking for. It handles very mature content expertly, but also doesn't go in too deep where it becomes a crazy emotional attachment.
This book is super fast paced and fun, but you need to be careful as you read along. The book does several time jumps, from the past to the present, without letting the reader know how it happens. It can easily be lost in translation if you aren't fully paying attention.
I definitely feel like this book is a perfect addition for those who enjoy Ruth Ware, and BA Paris—Anna Snoekstra, you have a fan in me! Thank you MIRA Books for providing my advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. The Spite Game will be released October 30, 2018.
The Spite Game is one of those psychological suspense novels that knowing less about is important. Don't read too much into the plot, because the best thing about this book is that the slowly developing suspense builds as each chapter goes on. It gets extremely gripping and utterly suspense-filled once you get into the action, and it will hold your attention until the end. After reading countless YA novels dealing with high school theatrics, The Spite Game is high school drama story that I've been looking for. It handles very mature content expertly, but also doesn't go in too deep where it becomes a crazy emotional attachment.
This book is super fast paced and fun, but you need to be careful as you read along. The book does several time jumps, from the past to the present, without letting the reader know how it happens. It can easily be lost in translation if you aren't fully paying attention.
I definitely feel like this book is a perfect addition for those who enjoy Ruth Ware, and BA Paris—Anna Snoekstra, you have a fan in me! Thank you MIRA Books for providing my advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. The Spite Game will be released October 30, 2018.
October 18, 2018
Tl;dr: If you call someone a psycho enough in high school you can turn them into one?!? A disjointed and disappointing muddle.
The Spite Game is nominally a thriller, though it's very clear from the opening how things are going to go. And go it does, through page after page of one increasingly unbelievable set piece after another.
The mc, Ava, was bullied by three girls in high school (well, one of them was a bystander) and spends the next decade or so pondering revenge and then sort of exacting revenge and then thinking about the past and then back to revenge and then wondering if she is a psychopath, then knowing she is, then wishing she wasn't, then back to revenge. Oh, and along the way she goes to Paris (thwarted revenge), falls in love, and gets rich. Or maybe she gets rich and then falls in love. It doesn't matter, really.
The problem with The Spite Game (besides the tissue thin characters and the wisp of a plot) is that it can't decide what it is. A cautionary tale about bullying? A novel about dubious morality vs. delusional morality? A woman, made (maybe) insane getting revenge on her (probably) more insane tormentor? By the end, I thought, "Well, that was...less than something."
I'm all for dark psychological thrillers, but you have to give me characters I'm interested in or a plot that makes sense. (Obviously, having both is preferable.) This had neither.
The sad thing is-- and the thing that kept me reading to the end-- is that this really could have been something. But the sum of The Spite Game's lumpen pieces just make a mess.
The Spite Game is nominally a thriller, though it's very clear from the opening how things are going to go. And go it does, through page after page of one increasingly unbelievable set piece after another.
The mc, Ava, was bullied by three girls in high school (well, one of them was a bystander) and spends the next decade or so pondering revenge and then sort of exacting revenge and then thinking about the past and then back to revenge and then wondering if she is a psychopath, then knowing she is, then wishing she wasn't, then back to revenge. Oh, and along the way she goes to Paris (thwarted revenge), falls in love, and gets rich. Or maybe she gets rich and then falls in love. It doesn't matter, really.
The problem with The Spite Game (besides the tissue thin characters and the wisp of a plot) is that it can't decide what it is. A cautionary tale about bullying? A novel about dubious morality vs. delusional morality? A woman, made (maybe) insane getting revenge on her (probably) more insane tormentor? By the end, I thought, "Well, that was...less than something."
I'm all for dark psychological thrillers, but you have to give me characters I'm interested in or a plot that makes sense. (Obviously, having both is preferable.) This had neither.
The sad thing is-- and the thing that kept me reading to the end-- is that this really could have been something. But the sum of The Spite Game's lumpen pieces just make a mess.
January 25, 2019
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The Spite Game by Anna Snoekstra. (2018).
After an incident in high school, Ava is badly bullied. She knows she needs to move on but she just can't; not until she gets revenge on those who hurt her the most - Theo, Saanvi, Cass and Mel. Mel was always the ringleader and if anyone should pay, it's her. Then Ava realises that Mel knows she's being watched and she's ready to play Ava's games to the bitter end.
I liked this book but felt it didn't live up to it's potential. The storyline is engaging and I did feel bad for Ava when it is revealed what happened to her in high school. However, Ava felt way too dramatic and I'm not sure I really found Ava's actions as an adult believable (although anything's possible I guess). In saying that, it was also hard to feel sorry for the people Ava went after as they seemed so shallow so it was intriguing to follow her revenge plots. I found the only real likeable main character to be Evan - Ava's neighbour, and friend later on. The story does jump around a little bit but it's not hard to follow. Overall this is a fairly enjoyable psychological thriller which fans of that genre may like.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
The Spite Game by Anna Snoekstra. (2018).
After an incident in high school, Ava is badly bullied. She knows she needs to move on but she just can't; not until she gets revenge on those who hurt her the most - Theo, Saanvi, Cass and Mel. Mel was always the ringleader and if anyone should pay, it's her. Then Ava realises that Mel knows she's being watched and she's ready to play Ava's games to the bitter end.
I liked this book but felt it didn't live up to it's potential. The storyline is engaging and I did feel bad for Ava when it is revealed what happened to her in high school. However, Ava felt way too dramatic and I'm not sure I really found Ava's actions as an adult believable (although anything's possible I guess). In saying that, it was also hard to feel sorry for the people Ava went after as they seemed so shallow so it was intriguing to follow her revenge plots. I found the only real likeable main character to be Evan - Ava's neighbour, and friend later on. The story does jump around a little bit but it's not hard to follow. Overall this is a fairly enjoyable psychological thriller which fans of that genre may like.
August 30, 2018
This was the first book I have read by Anna Snoekstra and I was definitely impressed. When I read the synopsis of this book I knew I just had to read it, as it sounds like the type of psychological thriller book that I would just love and devour. I was right!
This book takes you on a journey with a woman named Ava. Bullied relentlessly and embarrassed to no end in high school, Ava exacts revenge on all her "friends" she had in high school who did her wrong and bullied her. Those 3 so-called friends are Saanvi, Cass, and Mel. She has tried to live her life and move on, forgetting about the torment she has been through at the hands of such "friends" but there is just one problem.... She can't. Not until she pays each and everyone of them back for doing her wrong. Then, and maybe only then, can she move on and live her life.
High school is now over. Years later, one by one, she is on a mission to get them back for all they have done to her. And get them back she does! She watches them live their lives, their daily routines, watches them at work, at home, out in public. They have no idea she is there in the shadows watching their every move. Ava is waiting for the perfect moment to exact her revenge on them all.
Three words to describe this book - Lies, betrayal and revenge! This book pulled me in from the very first page. I was hooked! So much revenge, deceit, betrayal, lies, secrets, and games. I read this book is less than a day it was that good. I found the pages literally turning themselves as I wanted to know what would happen next.
Was Ava obsessed with revenge? Yes! Did she sometimes go too far? Heck Yes! But that's makes it all the more interesting to read and makes it such a gripping book. I loved it from cover to end. Well done! Wow! Fabulous book! Definitely a must read!
This book takes you on a journey with a woman named Ava. Bullied relentlessly and embarrassed to no end in high school, Ava exacts revenge on all her "friends" she had in high school who did her wrong and bullied her. Those 3 so-called friends are Saanvi, Cass, and Mel. She has tried to live her life and move on, forgetting about the torment she has been through at the hands of such "friends" but there is just one problem.... She can't. Not until she pays each and everyone of them back for doing her wrong. Then, and maybe only then, can she move on and live her life.
High school is now over. Years later, one by one, she is on a mission to get them back for all they have done to her. And get them back she does! She watches them live their lives, their daily routines, watches them at work, at home, out in public. They have no idea she is there in the shadows watching their every move. Ava is waiting for the perfect moment to exact her revenge on them all.
Three words to describe this book - Lies, betrayal and revenge! This book pulled me in from the very first page. I was hooked! So much revenge, deceit, betrayal, lies, secrets, and games. I read this book is less than a day it was that good. I found the pages literally turning themselves as I wanted to know what would happen next.
Was Ava obsessed with revenge? Yes! Did she sometimes go too far? Heck Yes! But that's makes it all the more interesting to read and makes it such a gripping book. I loved it from cover to end. Well done! Wow! Fabulous book! Definitely a must read!
November 7, 2021
Talk about a story and characters that make you feel that you need a bath...this one will do it. In a nutshell...this is what the reader will deal with. Hope you have a very strong constitution.
From the book:
“Ava was bullied as a kid and not just by anyone. By the ones she loved the most.... her best friends. What they did to her...their worst act of cruelty...has damaged her so severely she cannot move forward in her life as an adult. She is locked in a cold and tragic stupor of anguish that does not let her go for a minute. All her choices are based on the events of her childhood. And now all she really wants to do is get back at that malevolent group who were both her loves and her tormentors.”
It is by far the most painful thing I have ever encountered but I don’t believe the author intended for the reader to hate Ava...but to come to understand her feelings and desires. The writer does include some notes about how this book came to be written...but bear in mind when you start this that it’s a creepy, intense read that I would be extremely selective about recommending for just anyone and everyone...but anyone that is interested in the subject matter...go for it.
From the book:
“Ava was bullied as a kid and not just by anyone. By the ones she loved the most.... her best friends. What they did to her...their worst act of cruelty...has damaged her so severely she cannot move forward in her life as an adult. She is locked in a cold and tragic stupor of anguish that does not let her go for a minute. All her choices are based on the events of her childhood. And now all she really wants to do is get back at that malevolent group who were both her loves and her tormentors.”
It is by far the most painful thing I have ever encountered but I don’t believe the author intended for the reader to hate Ava...but to come to understand her feelings and desires. The writer does include some notes about how this book came to be written...but bear in mind when you start this that it’s a creepy, intense read that I would be extremely selective about recommending for just anyone and everyone...but anyone that is interested in the subject matter...go for it.
November 6, 2018
This was fabulous It only loses some points from me because of the slightly confused and jumpy timeline: this I found took slightly some getting used to but when I did The Spite Game for me was ever such a satisfying read.
A psychological thriller that cleverly conveys the story of Ava and her obsession with her former classmate's actions towards her and showing us that there's a fine line separating such strong feelings of acceptance versus Revenge and Adoration versus Hate.
That even after time, the repercussions echo on affecting our psyche and individual mindset.
And I bet if we all think back we have been or known an Ava and I for one found myself rallying mainly for the protagonist here: I wanted Ava to get her retaliation and her pound of flesh.
So yeh a truly enjoyable read that I read straight through without a break.
This one gets a thumbs up.
I voluntary reviewed an Arc of The Spite Game.
All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
July 12, 2018
This was very interesting, and more YA than adult because most of the story was in flashbacks.
It would've been much better as a book if it was actually YA story because like many other reviewers noted, the main character seems a bit stuck back in time and more in need of therapy than anything else. And, yes, she sounds self-pitying and whiny and not like someone you want to root for much.
I did enjoy the writing style a lot, even though it needs an edit or two, a lot of parts felt barely stitched together. And the fact that this takes place in Melbourne was a huge bonus.
Big thank you to NetGalley for the chance to read this. I will look out for more to come from Anna Snoekstra.
It would've been much better as a book if it was actually YA story because like many other reviewers noted, the main character seems a bit stuck back in time and more in need of therapy than anything else. And, yes, she sounds self-pitying and whiny and not like someone you want to root for much.
I did enjoy the writing style a lot, even though it needs an edit or two, a lot of parts felt barely stitched together. And the fact that this takes place in Melbourne was a huge bonus.
Big thank you to NetGalley for the chance to read this. I will look out for more to come from Anna Snoekstra.
October 28, 2018
The Spite Game by Ana Snoekstra is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Harlequin - MIRA, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis:
Ava is at the police station, waiting for the detective to come in. She has a confession to make.
As Ava sits in the interrogation room, she thinks back over her life, and the reason she is in this room.
She remembers being rather shy in high school, and wanting to be one of the cool girls instead of being one of the nerds. But she never felt good enough. She longed to be part of the clique consisting of Mel, and Sanvvi and Cass, and when an opportunity finally presented itself, she was in. But was she really? She ended up being mercilessly bullied, and her last months at school were a nightmare.
But out in the real world, Ava has never forgotten, nor forgiven her tormenters. Saanvi is now an architect, Cass a psychologist and Mel an actress…or so they say. Ava is following them, and sees that they are still not what they say they are. Ava is going to get revenge on each of them…when the time is right.
My Opinions:
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I rather enjoyed it. Not sure if it should be classified as YA, or adult thriller. A lot of it went back to high school days, where there are always different cliques of students – the rich, the poor, the nerds, the bullies, the stomped-on. This is a tale of what happens to some of these when they grow up, and how some of them never change, and now some of them never forget.
The narrator is Ava, and it goes back and forth between high school and present day to tell her story.
The characters were good, and you either loved them or hated them. You really felt the shallowness and cruelty of the three girls, while you felt Ava’s aching need to be popular. You also felt the love Evan, Bea and Celia felt for Ava, and the lack of love Ava felt for herself. I loved Ava, even when she was planning revenge, because she really tried to be better.
It’s a quick read, and although it started a little slow, it picked up and ended up being fairly suspenseful.
For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Harlequin - MIRA, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis:
Ava is at the police station, waiting for the detective to come in. She has a confession to make.
As Ava sits in the interrogation room, she thinks back over her life, and the reason she is in this room.
She remembers being rather shy in high school, and wanting to be one of the cool girls instead of being one of the nerds. But she never felt good enough. She longed to be part of the clique consisting of Mel, and Sanvvi and Cass, and when an opportunity finally presented itself, she was in. But was she really? She ended up being mercilessly bullied, and her last months at school were a nightmare.
But out in the real world, Ava has never forgotten, nor forgiven her tormenters. Saanvi is now an architect, Cass a psychologist and Mel an actress…or so they say. Ava is following them, and sees that they are still not what they say they are. Ava is going to get revenge on each of them…when the time is right.
My Opinions:
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I rather enjoyed it. Not sure if it should be classified as YA, or adult thriller. A lot of it went back to high school days, where there are always different cliques of students – the rich, the poor, the nerds, the bullies, the stomped-on. This is a tale of what happens to some of these when they grow up, and how some of them never change, and now some of them never forget.
The narrator is Ava, and it goes back and forth between high school and present day to tell her story.
The characters were good, and you either loved them or hated them. You really felt the shallowness and cruelty of the three girls, while you felt Ava’s aching need to be popular. You also felt the love Evan, Bea and Celia felt for Ava, and the lack of love Ava felt for herself. I loved Ava, even when she was planning revenge, because she really tried to be better.
It’s a quick read, and although it started a little slow, it picked up and ended up being fairly suspenseful.
For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
June 21, 2018
This is one of those books that just feels kind of ick when you read it.
While I felt for Ava, I also wanted her to grow up. What happened to her in the past was simply awful, but she was more in need of therapy than revenge.
There were some surprises in the book – especially in the end with one particular character – but it can be hard to get through a book when you simply hate the main character – and hate her I did!
The book is sort of suspenseful, but honestly? It wasn’t enjoyable.
Next time, give me someone to root for.
*ARC Provided via Net Galley
While I felt for Ava, I also wanted her to grow up. What happened to her in the past was simply awful, but she was more in need of therapy than revenge.
There were some surprises in the book – especially in the end with one particular character – but it can be hard to get through a book when you simply hate the main character – and hate her I did!
The book is sort of suspenseful, but honestly? It wasn’t enjoyable.
Next time, give me someone to root for.
*ARC Provided via Net Galley
October 6, 2018
****4-4.25 stars****
The Spite Game by Anna Snoekstra is darker, more vulgar version of Mean Girls and I couldn't put it down. I flew through this read and just flat out loved this book. These girls are literally "the worst" to Anna growing up in school but yet she wants to be friends with them and finds herself going to extremes to friend them. She also obsessed over what they did to her and could never forgive and move on in life. I wouldn't say there is a lot of mystery or unknowns in this read but the writing style and story line just work. Highly recommend, great read!
Special thanks to Netgalley and MIRA for allowing me an advance read copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Spite Game by Anna Snoekstra is darker, more vulgar version of Mean Girls and I couldn't put it down. I flew through this read and just flat out loved this book. These girls are literally "the worst" to Anna growing up in school but yet she wants to be friends with them and finds herself going to extremes to friend them. She also obsessed over what they did to her and could never forgive and move on in life. I wouldn't say there is a lot of mystery or unknowns in this read but the writing style and story line just work. Highly recommend, great read!
Special thanks to Netgalley and MIRA for allowing me an advance read copy in exchange for an honest review.
dnf
March 1, 2021DNF @45%
2018; Mira/Harlequin
I liked the premise of this book and the first two chapters were good, but then it started waning for me. It kept talking about this thing happening but never came to it. I am trying not to force myself to read books I am not enjoying so DNF it goes.
***I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.***
2018; Mira/Harlequin
I liked the premise of this book and the first two chapters were good, but then it started waning for me. It kept talking about this thing happening but never came to it. I am trying not to force myself to read books I am not enjoying so DNF it goes.
***I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.***
November 3, 2018
3.75 stars - entertaining.
October 31, 2018
I think that this is a good story, but couldn’t say I enjoyed it, as being inside the head of the most unlikeable protagonist in a long time was deeply uncomfortable. Don’t get me wrong - I don’t need them to be lovely people, but if I’m going to read about a psychopath I want them to be smart, witty, charming and amoral, not angsting over how awful they are.
Ava sits alone in a Melbourne police station, waiting to speak to a detective and rehearsing her confession of her role in the disappearance of a young woman. Flashing back to her high school days, we hear about her obsession with three cool girls who are bullies and all-rounded bitches. To get into their gang, she hatches a plan to bring down a predatory teacher, which they eagerly go along with. They are awful people, but Ava is desperate to be friends with them, and this was my biggest problem with her - they didn’t make her into a horrible person, she already was one, and it’s their rejection that spawns her decade-long obsession with revenge. Lurking like a malignant spider, she stalks each one until she can find a way to ruin their lives.
I normally quite like revenge plots in thrillers, but Ava is so messed up that I found I had no sympathy for her whatsoever. This is partly due to the back & forth narration - by the time we found out exactly what happened to her, Ava’s actions seem completely out of proportion. Don’t get me wrong, what they did was awful, and they probably did mostly deserve it, but the way she revels in her plotting made for an unpleasant read. I couldn’t understand why sweetie Evan had any time for her, and was also annoyed at her ghost of a mother and mouse of a sister who let it all happen. 2.5 rounded up because despite all this I did want to get to the end to find out what happened. I may have liked this more if I were younger, and the traumas of being a teenager fresher!
Thanks to Harlequin and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for a voluntary honest review. The Spite Game is available now.
Ava sits alone in a Melbourne police station, waiting to speak to a detective and rehearsing her confession of her role in the disappearance of a young woman. Flashing back to her high school days, we hear about her obsession with three cool girls who are bullies and all-rounded bitches. To get into their gang, she hatches a plan to bring down a predatory teacher, which they eagerly go along with. They are awful people, but Ava is desperate to be friends with them, and this was my biggest problem with her - they didn’t make her into a horrible person, she already was one, and it’s their rejection that spawns her decade-long obsession with revenge. Lurking like a malignant spider, she stalks each one until she can find a way to ruin their lives.
I normally quite like revenge plots in thrillers, but Ava is so messed up that I found I had no sympathy for her whatsoever. This is partly due to the back & forth narration - by the time we found out exactly what happened to her, Ava’s actions seem completely out of proportion. Don’t get me wrong, what they did was awful, and they probably did mostly deserve it, but the way she revels in her plotting made for an unpleasant read. I couldn’t understand why sweetie Evan had any time for her, and was also annoyed at her ghost of a mother and mouse of a sister who let it all happen. 2.5 rounded up because despite all this I did want to get to the end to find out what happened. I may have liked this more if I were younger, and the traumas of being a teenager fresher!
Thanks to Harlequin and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for a voluntary honest review. The Spite Game is available now.
October 17, 2018
Mean Girls with a nasty twist to it. Kind of told in a roundabout way that everything doesn’t fall into place until the last few pages but I liked how it panned out
November 5, 2018
I'm a sucker for a red cover. Always. Every time. Slap that cover on a book where you don't even really need to think and just sit back to enjoy the ride - color me happily entertained. Exactly what I needed after a busy moving weekend.
The synopsis pretty much tell it all. Ava gets bullied and now is exacting revenge. BOOM. Good enough for me! This has a bit of a Heathers feel with Ava as Veronica, ya get me? Not quite as dark but definitely dark enough.... like a dark YA novel though I know this isn't considered a YA book. But with my love for YA and for psychological thrillers, this combo worked for me. Narrated by Ava, we glimpse her telling her story to someone as we flashback to the various things that happened to her in the past and how she translates that to her future. They want to call her a psycho? Fine, she'll look up the definition and then become the very thing they say.
Even though this is an uncorrected proof, I found a plethora of typos that started to grate on me throughout the read. The ending wasn't a surprise but I don't think it really was mean to be either. I had one tiny issue with the ending but at the same time, I couldn't really argue with either character. **shrug**
Basically, the lesson here is DON'T BULLY and if you do and want to play some kind of game, then prepare for the consequences - because those actions you want to play off as a condition of being young... well, they fester and you never know when karma will be your bitch.
Thank you to Mira/Harlequin Books for this copy.
The synopsis pretty much tell it all. Ava gets bullied and now is exacting revenge. BOOM. Good enough for me! This has a bit of a Heathers feel with Ava as Veronica, ya get me? Not quite as dark but definitely dark enough.... like a dark YA novel though I know this isn't considered a YA book. But with my love for YA and for psychological thrillers, this combo worked for me. Narrated by Ava, we glimpse her telling her story to someone as we flashback to the various things that happened to her in the past and how she translates that to her future. They want to call her a psycho? Fine, she'll look up the definition and then become the very thing they say.
Even though this is an uncorrected proof, I found a plethora of typos that started to grate on me throughout the read. The ending wasn't a surprise but I don't think it really was mean to be either. I had one tiny issue with the ending but at the same time, I couldn't really argue with either character. **shrug**
Basically, the lesson here is DON'T BULLY and if you do and want to play some kind of game, then prepare for the consequences - because those actions you want to play off as a condition of being young... well, they fester and you never know when karma will be your bitch.
Thank you to Mira/Harlequin Books for this copy.
October 16, 2018
If you were ever bullied in school, you would probably enjoy living vicariously with the main character, Ava, as she seeks revenge on those “mean girls” who wronged her. The book goes back in forth in time to give flashbacks of the high school events. Ava works so hard at her revenge schemes that she ceases really living her own life and starts to lose who she is. I found The Spite Game to be a quick, easy read and it made me glad that I have not become stuck in the past trying to get revenge on anyone. It didn’t hold together enough for a four or five star rating from me but it was ok if you are in the mood for a revenge story.
Thanks to NetGalley, Harlequin-Mira, and Anna Snoekstra for an advanced electronic reading copy.
Thanks to NetGalley, Harlequin-Mira, and Anna Snoekstra for an advanced electronic reading copy.
January 27, 2019
I was surprised how much I liked this. You might read this and think that Ava was just a tad obsessed with her old "friends" and maybe think she needed to move on. You might be correct. She was obsessed. Revenge isn't simple though and sometimes its hard to move on until you see that everyone gets what they deserve. It was told in flashbacks and not in order either, so sometimes it was hard to keep the timeline straight but I did like it.
November 26, 2018
Best served cold could be an alternative title.
Rather a messy plot and more characters than we could find a good use for, but a superb depiction of the erotics of school bullying and revenge.
Rather a messy plot and more characters than we could find a good use for, but a superb depiction of the erotics of school bullying and revenge.
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