Ola Olajide is a successful content writer for an online magazine (so like every character I've read about recently: I think it's just A Thing at the moment) and her fiancé Michael has just got a job making video content for another trendy organisation after thankless years running a podcast and doing videos while working in retail (I did like that it was the guy who had had that pathway). Both of them are in their jobs because of diversity policies, and experience the usual microaggressions.

Then one of those MeToo things goes viral, but this time it's about men in social media and various celebrity areas (there's a famous footballer on there) and guess who's on there ... Ola would normally be right on this with a feminist take, and indeed she did that when it was about DJs a few years ago, but how can she bring this anonymous 24-hour list more publicity and ruin people's careers when her boyfriend's on it. And should he be?

Ola and Michael have had their run-ins with truth-telling in the past, and he slowly learns that his behaviour early on and now with his mates (the "boring one" excepted; he's now the one who keeps an eye on Michael while taking him to task appropriately) was not great, and has a big lesson to learn. We also see toxic masculinity and "Be Kind" culture flayed and laid bare - there's a lot of unpicking going on in this book, which is very much of its time.

Michael's learned how to be a man from his distant dad and fears his mum finding out - but of course she will. And then the personal comments on a chatroom start, and the complaints to Michael's company, and he realises that crap is about to hit the fan in a big way when he works out who probably reported him and who's behind the rest of it.

A bit like "The Three of Us", this reads like one of those domestic thrillers and it's certainly a page turner. It's nuanced and stresses the importance of friendship as well as family and relationships, with the clock ticking away on a wedding that's in a month's time racking up the tension and a sudden perspective shift near the end giving the reader pause. It's also very funny, as the quote above describing Ola's best friends points out.

This will he reviewed on my blog on 20 July https://librofulltime.wordpress.com/2023/07/20/book-review-yomi-adegoke-the-list/

This is a really thought provoking book with a timely premise that I could not put down. The List follows couple Ola and Michael as their wedding approaches but their plans are interrupted when Michael is accused of harassment and is put on a list online with several prominent men who all are accused for various levels of abuse.
The story is told from both Ola and Michaels perspectives and I think it did a good job of exploring the different perspectives and feelings involved in such a complicated situation. There is a degree of ambiguity and intrigue which continues throughout the book as we are unsure of the truth and what stance to take. This book tackles a range of topics and definitely gives the reader lots to think about. Definitely a brilliant read that will make for some great discussion points.

This is a sharp, confident debut that tackles enormous, tricky topics (#metoo, cancel culture, ‘open secret’ abusers within the media, victim blaming), and manages to do so with nuance and skill. The tension is skilfully built with the day by day count-down to the wedding, and then its aftermath, and you really get inside both Ola and Michaels heads with their dual POVs, seeing both sides of the story. At times it was a frustrating read - but it also needed to be. I occasionally wanted to shake Ola and ask her to just trust Michael, but as a woman I also understood why she couldn’t. I found the 2019 setting didn’t add much to the story (and indeed I thought it was set in the present day for a long time), particularly as some of the voracity with which the internet reacts to ‘The List’ felt very 2023, but it also didn’t feel intrusive. My main critiques would be that the pace sagged a little in the middle, but only because it felt so whirlwind up until then, and that the final ‘twist’ feels almost a bit too neat but overall this was a pacey, enjoyable (yet uncomfortable!), and well written read that I would highly recommend.

This novel shows how a seemingly happy relationship can be affected by Social Media. A couple who themselves have a reasonably big following on Social Media, who have used it to boost their own presence. On the lead up to their wedding the release of a list which names high profile people of rape, abuse and other heinous actions. Though not as high profile as the others the Groom is named. The groom then tries to prove his innocence. As they both struggle, her with believing he is innocent and him looking back at all his past actions in relationships. Their world slowly crumbles as they get nearer to their wedding date, even though there is no evidence to support the claims against him, the consequences of being on the list are catastrophic to their relationship, will they make it. I really enjoyed this book, it highlights how powerful Social Media is, and how it can impact on lives.

I found this book really gripping. It's an interesting and timely premise for a book, and I felt that even though it switched between Michael and Orla's perspectives, you still didn't quite know what was the truth. It was a pretty fast paced book with twists and turns and really well written. Would definitely recommend

Ola and Michael are the epitome of a power couple, with thriving careers and a massive online following. Their impending wedding is just around the corner, and it appears that nothing can hinder their success. However, their world is abruptly shattered when a viral sensation known as The List emerges on Twitter. This cataclysmic event not only disrupts Ola and Michael's relationship but also sends shockwaves through their social circles, affecting their friends and family. Confronted with the repercussions of The List, both Ola and Michael find themselves reevaluating their beliefs, values, and past and future actions. As their lives unravel, the book delves into their struggles to come to terms with the situation they find themselves in.

I thoroughly enjoyed The List due to its cleverness and relevance in today's world. The novel masterfully explores various themes, such as cancel culture, misogyny, online trolls, feminism, racism, and more, all in a manner that feels incredibly relatable and up-to-date. It serves as a poignant reminder of the destructive power of social media, while also exposing the hypocrisy that often prevails in online interactions. The book highlights how a fleeting tweet, video, or in this case, a list of names, can set off a chain reaction with very real-life consequences.

Additionally, I admired the author's portrayal of the complexity of discussing these themes both within close-knit relationships and in the wider world. The conversations between Ola, Michael, and their friends often teeter on the edge, as a single wrong word or misstep only worsens their predicament. It starkly illustrates the challenges of engaging in rational discourse in today's landscape, where lacking context or nuance can be immensely damaging.

The List is undeniably a contemporary and captivating read. The writing effortlessly captures the spirit of the times, while the characters are well-developed and believable. The author adeptly navigates the exploration of sensitive topics, ensuring the narrative remains thought-provoking and insightful. Whether you are a frequent user of social media or simply keep up with current affairs and influencers, this book is bound to resonate with you. The events unfold in a believable manner, and the clean and engaging writing style makes it an ideal choice for a fast-paced read during a holiday or weekend getaway.

Ola is a journalist who works at a feminist magazine. She is due to marry Michael in a month when his name appears on "The List". The love of her life is accused of "harassment and threatening behaviour/physical assault at office Christmas party" What will Ola do and will their wedding go ahead?

This book springs from important social issues and explores themes of misogyny, sexual abuse, male suicide, grief, cancel culture and the drawbacks of social media. However I feel it tries to cover too many issues for one book. The plot becomes bogged down and cluttered and the message loses its impact. I also found it uncomfortable that there was a lot of focus on the idea that women make false accusations (which is quite rare).

I did find this book to be thought provoking and it does raise a lot of questions. Unfortunately it just wasn't for me.

Thank to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy to read and review.

A brilliant and assuredly written contemporary novel exploring the affects of cancel culture on a young black couple. Ola and Michael are a black engaged couple, whose wedding is just over a month away. But their lives are upended when a list is released on Twitter about toxic men in the entertainment industry and Michael’s name is included…
This is a topical and gripping novel following the lives of two people and the affect of trial by social media. I found it fascinating and highly engaging. I also love the intersectional aspects of being black and the dynamic between the characters including Ola’s boss Frankie. I thought the prose showed a lot of nuance without being patronising. Such a relevant and smart novel, I can’t recommend this one enough.

I finished this one night ago and I so wish it hadn’t ended.

Ola and Michael are a influencial couple about to marry, a few weeks before their wedding a list is released on the internet and Michael is named. The list is full of people who have done appalling and disgusting things to others and obviously this cannot be ignored.

The book is written with so much talent that I found myself caring deeply, from what Ola will do as a feminist journalist known for her work on other #metoo scandals, from how Michael’s grandmother would settle in to Enfield after a long flight. The talent that Adegoke has for writing is absolutely astounding.

There were deep and horrible issues in this book which were dealt with sensitively, Ola’s struggle between supporting victims and loving her fiancé was heart rending.

This is a master class in modern times and the pitfalls of influencer culture, and ultimately a study in who we are in a crisis.

I had read so much hype about this book that I thought I should read it. Although it deals with many modern issues, this book was not for me. Destroying people by social media is all too prevalent in real life that I was quickly bored by a fictional version. A younger person would probably enjoy it.

Ola and Michael seem to have it all. Both young, successful and soon to be married, they are the new online 'It' couple, until they aren't. 'The List' hits the internet and their lives as they know them are changed, as Michael's name is on there. He is pleading innocence, while Ola is renowned for her feminist, no-nonsense approach to these types of men, but does she believe Michael?

A lot of current issues are covered in this book, particularly around how interesting fame can make and break people in an instant and the capacity of trial by social media and the effects it can have on someone's life.

Imagine you are one half of a power couple and about to get married. With everything going for you. Until that is, one month before the wedding, on the same day you are starting a new job, your name appears on a list. Both you and your fiance are alerted to it and both you and her are shocked...
This is exactly what Michael goes through at the start of this book. This list is a list of names of men who have wronged women. It's just a list, no evidence, just names and alleged crimes. But it's out there. And no smoke without fire... right?
Although Michael is innocent... well, so he claims. But who has put him on the list and why. That is for him to try and work out. On the other hand, fiance Ola is confused. She loves Michael, she's marrying him. But could it be true? With a wedding fast approaching, what should she do...?
Apart from being a cracking story in itself, this book is also quite important with regard to the cess-pool that the internet can be. It's quite well times as we in the UK have just gone through a bit of a who is it guessing game on (mostly) twitter when alleged dark deeds were exposed and many innocent people named as the perpetrator! But I digress...
It's hard to try and second guess what people would do in this situation so it is not for me to judge what Michael and Ola did. Some of which was more believable than others. But all of it wasn't pretty. And mostly also played out in public - cos, well, popcorn moment! Trial by twitter and all that... with everyone, anonymous keyboard warriors / bots weighing in with their two penneth!
It also highlights the fragility of all things social media. That which giveth also taketh away. Nothing is safe. Those who stood behind you are now wielding the knife. Cancel culture and all that. Even a minor slip... Everyone has an opinion. And it all plays out there, every single day.
But also there's Michael and why he is on the list, and should he be there, to contend with. And I will leave you to discover that as the author intends.
Suffice to say that, akin to a car crash, I couldn't look away all the way through... My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.

"Traversing the Intricacies of Deception" - Yomi Adegoke's "The List" is a splendid masterpiece that skilfully weaves a gripping story of suspense and mystery.

Set against the backdrop of Ola Olajide's upcoming wedding to Michael, the story unfolds through the alternating perspectives of these two main characters. Adegoke's clever choice to tell the tale from both Ola and Michael's points of view adds depth to the storytelling, and keeping me hooked and eager to uncover the truth. The countdown to the wedding day gives the narrative an exciting sense of urgency and anticipation, making me turn each page eagerly. It's a testament to Adegoke's writing skills that the story never loses momentum, keeping readers engaged until the thrilling climax.

One of the standout themes in "The List" is its exploration of the dangers of social media. Adegoke brilliantly reveals how the online world can quickly ruin lives, showing the disastrous consequences of viral accusations. "The List" delves into the intricate dynamics of relationships, miscommunication, secrets, and the devastating impact these can have. I particularly loved the chapters on the wedding day, the description and cultural accuracy was on point.

While the book is fiction, its premise feels all too real. The idea of a list circulating online, exposing powerful individuals who have abused their authority, isn't far-fetched. The novel sharply captures the repulsive behaviour of online trolls and mobs, who are like a pack of rabid hyenas, relentlessly seeking to destroy without caring about the truth, consequences, or justice. It's hard not to empathise with the Ola and Michael's struggles and the bad decisions they make, particularly when it is all so emotionally raw.

The most heartbreaking part of the story is the innocence of the two characters most affected, contrasted with the impunity enjoyed by the truly guilty parties, both online and in real life. There are moments of relief too, the supporting characters do help create humour and populate a world which it is so recognisable. There were some flaws, but I forgive them.

It all reminded me of recent distressing incidents in the media, where innocent people have been hounded by the press without any legal wrongdoing. It's a current issue that we're constantly living with, just look at what happened with that BBC presenter. Lives are shattered, while the perpetrators get away with it, much like the online trolls depicted in the novel. It is tragic.

Ultimately, "The List" is a perfectly paced and authentic story, with an unexpected final chapter that sticks in your memory. It's definitely one of the standout books I have read this year. Captivating storytelling, sharp observations, and thought-provoking questions about the power and dangers of the digital age.

Thanks 4th Estate, William Collins and Netgalley for the advance review copy.

I can see how this has already been snapped up to be made into a TV series. Michael and Ola are a gorgeous, instagram perfect Black couple. They are having a 30k wedding in a month's time, Michael is starting a trendy new presenting job and Ola writes for a campaigning website, Womxxn. Then "The List" drops, a spreadsheet accusing various men in the media of sexual abuse and harassment that is quickly taken down.Michael is named on there. He swears to Ola that he has done nothing wrong but she isn't sure she can trust him. Can she face calling off their big wedding with relatives flying in from Africa? In her job she has exposed MC's who were abusers adn her boss wants her to write about "The List."

This should be a summer page turner but I felt that the writing fell curiously flat and the pacing was very uneven. I think it should have concentrated on "The List" and the effect on Michael and Ola's jobs, male toxicity and a few of their friends instead of trying to cover too many issues such as black solidarity, racism. complicated family dynamics and back stories and introducing too many minor characters. It also felt way too long for the content. It would have been much better as a shorter, snappier work. I also felt conflicted that the men on "The List" that were highlighted in the plot were victims of malicious accusations, although both had toxic traits. I also didn't feel connected to Ola or Michael, despite a lot of back story. Neither seemed to really believe in anything or felt empathetic to me.

Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC!

I really really enjoyed this book! It asks a lot of important and relevant questions and really got me thinking! Although I would advise checking trigger warnings before you read!

A fab book!

“Navigating the Web of Secrets”
"The List" by Yomi Adegoke is a captivating novel that masterfully weaves a tale of intrigue and suspense. Set against the backdrop of Ola Olajide's impending wedding to Michael, the story unfolds through the alternating perspectives of the two protagonists. Adegoke's decision to present the narrative from both Ola and Michael's points of view adds depth and richness to the storytelling, keeping readers engrossed and eager to uncover the truth. The structured countdown to the wedding day adds a sense of urgency and anticipation, compelling readers to keep turning the pages. It's a testament to Adegoke's writing prowess that the story never loses momentum, leaving readers gripped until the very end.

One of the standout themes in "The List" is its exploration of the dangers inherent in social media. Adegoke expertly shines a light on how the online world can quickly turn lives upside down and the devastating consequences of viral accusations. Fans of shows like 'Black Mirror', which delve into the dark side of technology, will find themselves drawn to the thought-provoking aspects of this novel. At the same time, "The List" holds appeal for those who enjoy domestic thrillers like ''Big Little Lies, as it unravels the intricate dynamics of relationships and the secrets that can destroy lives. Adegoke's ability to blend elements of both genres creates a unique reading experience that is sure to captivate a wide range of readers.

I Found This Decidedly Depressing!😔
A 2.5 Star Read.⭐️⭐️🌟
The List

Although this is a well written piece of fiction, it could easily be based on truth. (The premise being a list of 'people in power' being outed online as abusing that power. It is not a stretch of the imagination at all!😳) It left me feeling unclean, and I wanted to wash my brain out, with bleach, afterwards!🥺

The vileness of online trolls was so very spot on. They're like a pack of rabid hyenas out to search and destroy! No regard for truth, consequences, or the actual justice system. I felt so bad for the real victims who put 'The List' together, feeling they had no other option.😢

Much like our newspaper press of late, hounding two presenters - one on ITV, the other BBC, where neither had actually done anything illegal, morally repugnant, yes, illegal, no. They blow lives apart, then walk away with a wide smirk, dusting off their hands with a 'job well done' attitude! No consequences - just like online trolls.😠

The saddest part of this story was that the two men most affected were truly innocent. While the majority of the very guilty ones got off scot-free online and in real life!🤷🏻‍♀️ And the biggest travesty of all was who actually brought about Michael's downfall and why!😔

This book was solely based on black men abusing power. It felt double-edged, to me, a white woman. Fighting on two fronts for deeply meaningful and necessary changes with the #metoo and #blacklivesmatter movements. But also having to call out some of their biggest success stories as the worst abusers of their power, culture, attitudes, and entitlements!🤯

It's a deep and thought-provoking read. I'm certain many people will feel seen after reading it.🙏🏼😇 I do recommend it as it is well written. It just wasn't my usual taste in reading material. So, I'm hoping that my review will count for more than my star rating.⭐️

I'd like to thank both netgalley and the publisher for giving me a copy of this book, without obligation.

Debbie, 1970, UK

I‘d seen a lot of hype (too much?) about this book so I was a bit wary going in.

Well, it is just fabulous! I read it in one sitting and was breathless by the end.

Ola, is marrying Michael in a month, when his name appears on ‘The List‘ - of men accused of varying levels of abuse. Michael is also starting a new high-profile job in the media that very day.

The narrative was propulsive and realistic, and the last chapter was totally unexpected - one of my favourite books of the year!

The List by Yomi Adegoke addresses the discussions on abuse by asking what you would do if your partner was one of the accused. Ola Olajide has to ask herself this question, when a month before her wedding, The List of men, within the media professions, that have been accused of various degrees of abuse, is published on Twitter for 24 hours, and her fiancé, Michael, is named on there.

The author does a great job at highlighting the paradoxical nature of social media: it can make you, but it can just as quickly break you. I also enjoyed how she managed to show how toxic the media can be through the vicious consequences public allegations can make. The back and forth POV between Michael and Ola drew out how these allegations don't just affect those accused, but everyone they come into contact with.

The twists and reveals, as well as the cliff hanger endings to most of the chapters, really kept the suspense going and constantly had you asking if you would believe Michael was guilty or not. The final reveal at the end really floored me and increased the incensed rage the build-up within the novel provides.

However, there were some elements that felt too repetitive towards the beginning. The constant back and forth within Ola's mind as she tries to determine whether to believe Michael's innocence or not really started to get boring in places. There were also some elements that left me with a too sour taste in my mouth.

The List is, however, a gripping read, focusing on one of the most insidious elements of social media platforms and how dangerous its consequences can be to those involved.

This book gave me a lot of things to think about and consider how my response in many different situations -- if I was one of the characters. It's an exciting and compelling read and is guaranteed to keep you turning the pages.

I've always assumed social media to be a powerful tool. But this book made me consider the immeasurable power that this tool wields. It's frightening, if you ask me.

The story offers you a behind the scenes into the lives of people who suffer from cancel culture as we mostly always perveive it from the outside in. It's a terrifying experience for anyone: guilty or not guily.

What would you do if someone you love is canceled and dragged across social media for an alleged crime? Worse, it's someone you've agreed to spend the rest of your life with, and approaching sealing that agreement in 27 days!!

Overall, it's an enjoyable read. The characters are very relatable and authentic to. Can't wait to see it adapted into a movie.