I’m not going to rate this book. It would be unfair to as my enjoyment would merit a low rating but I don’t believe this to be a ‘bad’ book; this book just wasn’t for me. There were some parts of the book I found interesting - most notably the retelling of the trail - and some parts I found quite readable - the first sections relating to Jaqueline Kennedy and Dianna’s (?) section. However, the rest was a drag. 

I commend Alison Macleod’s passion and research. It’s clear she felt strongly about this time in history and the trial(s) of Lady Chatterley’s Lover. Her research was impressive. However, there were times when the names, dates, details, became too much. Especially when discussing Hoover’s plans or during the sections relating to ‘The Excile’. It was impossible to follow the plot, the cast of people, the diplomatic relations, and the (in my opinion) overly described landscapes. 

I wonder if Macleod should have written non-fiction. 

All that said, there is clear talent within these pages; It would simply be better received by a different reader, and I will definitely be finding out more about the life of Lady Chatterley’s Lover …. I may even attempt to read it. 

I was so excited to read this as it came highly recommended and would give me a chance to learn more about Desi culture. But ..: something about the writing style did not click. It felt very pop culture, millennial, online jokes and references but none of it was organic. 

I also didn’t warm to any of the characters (although maybe I would have if I’d read further). However, the real decision maker was other reviews. I looked them up to see if it was worth persevering (nope!). The majority of what I found were people commenting on the fact the main guy refers to his penis as Charlie … and the quotes. Just no thank you!