Book Review: Very Bad Company by Emma Rosenblum

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✯ (4.5/5 stars)

Plot Summary:
Every year, the crème de la crème of Aurora, a hip tech startup, flock to Miami for a lavish retreat. This year’s shindig sees Caitlin Levy, the new head of events, joining the fray, enticed by a seven-figure salary, stock options, and the kind of benefits that would make even the most jaded techie swoon. But when a high-level executive goes MIA after the first night, the sunny retreat turns into a shadowy game of corporate cloak-and-dagger.

With the company’s future sale hanging in the balance, Caitlin and her colleagues must juggle team-building exercises and brainstorming sessions while dodging fatal speculations. Can they keep the company’s image squeaky clean, or will the missing executive’s absence crash Aurora’s stock faster than you can say “IPO”?

Review:
Emma Rosenblum has crafted a devilishly delightful concoction of corporate satire and whodunit mystery in Very Bad Company. The novel deftly skewers the absurdities of tech startup culture while weaving a gripping tale that keeps you guessing until the very end. If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if The Office and Agatha Christie had a literary love child, this book is your answer.

Characters:
Caitlin Levy, the protagonist, is a breath of fresh air. Her sharp wit and relatable skepticism make her the perfect lens through which to view the over-the-top corporate antics. The supporting cast, a colorful array of techies, executives, and a few red herrings, add depth and plenty of suspects to keep readers engaged.

Writing Style:
Rosenblum’s writing is crisp and breezy, making Very Bad Company a compulsive page-turner. Her knack for humorous dialogue and clever observations about corporate life adds an extra layer of enjoyment. She balances the comedic elements with the mystery plot effortlessly, ensuring that the stakes feel real even amid the absurdity.

Plot Twists:
The plot twists are executed with precision, keeping you on the edge of your seat. Just when you think you’ve figured out the mystery, Rosenblum throws another curveball, making the resolution all the more satisfying.

Final Thoughts:
Very Bad Company is a rollicking good read, perfect for anyone who enjoys a good laugh mixed with their mystery. Whether you’re a tech industry insider or an armchair detective, this book offers something for everyone. Its sharp satire and engaging plot earn it a well-deserved 4.5 out of 5 stars.

So, if you’re looking for a summer read that combines the best of corporate comedy and mystery, grab a copy of Very Bad Company. Just be warned: you might find yourself eyeing your own company retreats with a lot more suspicion!

Happy reading, and remember, sometimes the most cutting-edge innovations happen when no one’s looking.