Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less (Coronet Books)

Jeffrey Archer's debut novel is widely praised for its engaging and entertaining plot, with many reviewers describing it as a fun, fast-paced read. Readers appreciated the clever and meticulous plans devised by the protagonists to exact their revenge, finding the story captivating and full of ingenious schemes. The book is often compared to heist films like "Ocean's Eleven" due to its light-hearted tone and satisfying portrayal of a non-violent revenge. The characters are generally found to be well-described, distinct, and interesting, contributing to a narrative that keeps the reader's attention from beginning to end. Many consider it a strong start to Archer's career, showcasing his talent for crafting thrilling and easy-to-read stories.

However, the reviews also highlight several significant drawbacks. Some readers found the plot to be overly farcical, lacking the sophistication of similar stories, and felt that the villain became conveniently gullible at times. Criticisms were also directed at the narrative voice, which some described as wooden and dull, particularly in the initial introduction of characters and backstory. A recurring and prominent negative point is the book's dated portrayal of women and instances of male chauvinism. Reviewers found the sexism to be blatant and offensive, citing examples of misogynistic attitudes and actions that, while perhaps tolerated at the time of publication in 1976, are considered unacceptable by modern standards. For some, this aspect significantly detracted from their enjoyment and even made them unwilling to read further works by the author.

In conclusion, "Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less" is generally regarded as an enjoyable and quick read that delivers a satisfying caper and revenge story. While its clever plot and engaging pace are frequently lauded, the book's weaknesses include a sometimes simplistic or farcical execution of its schemes and a narrative style that doesn't appeal to all. Crucially, its outdated and offensive depiction of gender roles and treatment of female characters is a major point of contention for many contemporary readers. This book would likely appeal to those who enjoy light, non-violent thrillers, heist narratives, and stories of clever retribution, provided they are able to overlook or contextualize the social attitudes prevalent at the time of its initial publication.