Die Assistentin | Caroline Wahl

Die Assistentin is a sharp, clever, and relatable novel that deals with the absurd  and , at times, toxic world of publishing. The protagonist, Charlotte, lands the role of assistant to Ugo Maise, the owner of a renowned publishing company based in Munich. 

Maise is unpredictable and demanding. Wahl describes the interactions between Maise and Charlotte in a way that is realistic and fascinating, but you feel the tension pulsing off of the page. It's exhausting, and when Charlotte finally breaks, the reader breaks with her.

Wahl doesn't go in for over-the-top drama; instead she shows the subtle, creeping toll that stress takes - back pain, panic attacks and the feeling of never being enough. Despite all of the stress of her job, Charlotte finds solace in making music and at the end, finds a way to make that her life and leave the toxicity of the publishing world behind.

The Assistant definitely isn't a feel-good read, but it is honest, funny in parts and really captures the atmosphere of a toxic work environment. A very well written and captivating story.