Review of The Bad Ones by Melissa Albert
From the moment I laid eyes on the stunning cover of The Bad Ones, I felt a pull. The artwork screamed beautiful darkness, a perfect prelude to what awaited within the pages, and let me tell you, Melissa Albert does not disappoint. As a huge fan of her previous works, I was eagerly anticipating this release, and I can genuinely say that it lived up to my expectations, earning a solid 4.5 stars from me.
The story kicks off with a punch: Nora’s estranged best friend, Becca, goes missing along with several other residents of their small town. This isn’t just a tale of disappearance; it touches upon the deep bond of friendship and the instinctual feeling that something sinister lurks beneath the surface. While the adults around Nora believe Becca has run off, Nora instinctively knows something is terribly wrong. The cryptic message Becca leaves feels like a siren call, pulling Nora deeper into a mystery steeped in local lore and legend, specifically a goddess tied to their childhood games.
Nora’s voice is gritty and somewhat morose, which might rub some readers the wrong way, but for me, it was refreshing. Her bluntness adds a layer of authenticity to her character that captures the emotional weight of her search. Emma Galvin’s narration in the audiobook version brought Nora’s voice to life in such a compelling way that I felt as if I were right there beside her, unraveling the mystery. If you enjoy audiobooks, I highly recommend experiencing it this way.
As her investigation unfolds, we meet James, a new friend who helps Nora navigate her tumultuous emotions. Initially, I was unsure about him—was he too cool for school, or could I trust him? But as their friendship develops, James helps Nora chip away at her defenses, bringing a warm but necessary light to her dark quest. Their rapport is nuanced and adds an enriching layer to Nora’s journey, showcasing how connections can foster courage in our darkest times.
The pacing of The Bad Ones is impressive, gracefully weaving between dread and momentum. However, I did find a couple of structural choices in the resolution that I might have approached differently. But then again, who am I to critique an author like Albert? My reading experience was nothing short of engaging; I was kept on my toes with suspense and intrigue, eagerly turning the pages to uncover the truth.
In conclusion, The Bad Ones is a captivating read perfect for fans of YA fiction who crave dark atmospheres filled with supernatural elements and small-town secrets. If you’re drawn to stories that explore the complexities of friendship, the power of intuition, and the weight of loss, this book is undoubtedly for you. Melissa Albert has yet again proven her ability to weave a compelling narrative that resonates long after the last page is turned. Happy reading!