Author: Luke Jennings
Genre: espionage, thriller
Rating: 3/5 stars
Verdict
Codename Villanelle has a very enigmatic start, making clear the narrative’s fit in the genre of espionage. A room of strangers (I pictured silhouettes around a long oval table), clearly connected by a secret organization, assuming control and delivering verdicts that shape the whole world. Mute, but not muted, it’s their decision that starts the whole story.
Normally I watch espionage in films, I don’t really read spy novels. This one has all the typical elements I’d find in a film, but definitely more admin and brainstorming scenes involved. I’m far too used to blockbuster spy films that cut to the chase because they’ve only got 90 minutes and therefore only want to show the action packed best bits. A book has more time and invites a bit more thought.
You’re introduced to a diverse range of individuals, with people with different ethnic or sexual identities included. I particularly like that the two main characters, Eve and Villanelle, are sophisticated, strong-minded intelligent women. Both are driven, with one critical differentiation: whilst Eve is filled and driven by emotion, Villanelle functions through the absence of emotion. This contrast creates the beginnings of an interesting dynamic and I’m curious to see how this develops throughout the series. Especially looking forward to them meeting face to face too.
Details are important – it’s the only way you can be close to Villanelle. The details signify the danger of her world and draw you in. From the specific outfits Villanelle is dressed in for each role, to the intimate knowledge of her kills, you are given so much information you can’t help but feel connected to Villanelle and her story. Combined with her backstory, and there’s already some conflict there. I’m not sure how much I’m supposed to care about a murdering psychopath; it’s a grey area.
I also felt quite travelled reading this book, it took me across the world in just a few hundred pages. The intrinsic descriptions of the Shanghai bars and nightlife, and presentation of the Parisian life Villanelle enjoys on the side had me itching to experience this all for myself – albeit a lowkey / non-violent / non-espionage version.
This book is the first in a series and that very much shapes this book. Everything about it says development. Despite the plot being packed, there’s very little depth, with the storys surface only just being touched. So, unless you’re willing to commit to at least another book before delivering verdict, I would give this book a miss. As a standalone Codename Villanelle isn’t a satisfying read for me, but as a setup it’s good, and I look forward to further Villanelle – Eve rivalry in book two.
Find it on Goodreads!
Escape Through The Pages 