Is ‘The Dead List’ Worth Your Time? A Full Review

I already know this book is going to be in my top reads for 2025! The Dead List by Jennifer L Armentrout is full of mystery, heartache and second chances.

Where We Start

We meet Ella at a party just before her senior year of high school is starting. She spots an old friend of hers, Jensen, but the two haven’t spoken in four years and tonight is no different.

After her friend ditches her for a hook up and Ella fights off the flirtations of the school jerk she decides to leave the party. It’s on the way to her car that she is suddenly attacked by someone in a haunting clown mask. During the frightening struggle, vehicle headlights suddenly illuminate the scene and send the attacker running. A barely conscious Ella hears the voice of none other than Jensen as he holds her and calls for help.

Throughout the story we get flashbacks to the past that explain Ella and Jensen’s history, the core group of friends they used to share and how it fractured through the years. Ella and Jensen’s romantic connection comes to light and they draw closer to each other as they work to solve who tried to attack Ella.

Why It Was Worth Reading

I love that this story had the perfect balance of mystery and romance. It moves along at such a quick pace that I stayed up until 1 a.m. so I could finish it in one sitting. Your mind is constantly guessing as to who is behind the murders as there are multiple breadcrumb trails that lead to various suspects.

I also loved seeing Jensen and Ella reconnect, forgive each other and admit to their long standing feelings. I don’t want to give away spoilers so I will just say I was genuinely shocked by how everything turned out in the end and I love that it wasn’t as predictable as as some mystery romances.

If you’re looking for a book with a gripping plot, second chance at young love and a hint of spice – I highly recommend The Dead List!

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Overall Rating