tashreads2manybooks's Reviews (1.06k)

After 220 pages I am DNFing this book. I can't read any more about rowing, yoga or what wine you pair with which meal(with every course described in detail). This is a beloved novel, and I know I am in the minority, but it is too slow, and I need something in the story to keep me hooked. Nothing has really happened.

Another great historical fiction (mystery?) from Jessie Burton. I loved Odelle, but the characters in the 1930's timeline felt a bit flat. However, still really enjoyable and I will definitely be reading Burton's next novel (whenever that may be - no pressure Ms Burton).

4.5 stars! It's times like this that I really wish Goodreads had that elusive half star rating. This book is so good. It is heartwarming and funny, angry (rightfully so!), heart wrenching and incredibly sad. How she does all of this in a seemingly effortless way is a true mark of a gifted writer.

3.5 stars. I kinda liked Joe in the beginning- but then things got very dark, very quickly (which I kinda liked 😂). Beck was not likable at all, yet I was still rooting for her.

I’m rounding this up to 5 stars from a solid 4.5. This will not be for everyone. It is deeply disturbing and makes for an uncomfortable read. Trigger warnings galore. Yet, I was riveted, I had to know what happened. Thera is such an intriguing character, and while some of her actions are far fetched, I have a feeling she will stay with me for a while yet.

An eerie old mansion; a quick-tempered ageing hoarder; a missing girl; a funny, likeable narrator who sees saints; an agoraphobic trans magician's assistant - what is not to love about this mystery?!

DNF at 25%. It's not you, it's me.

Um, ok, so that happened. Did it, though? I'm not 100% sure what I just read, but I thoroughly enjoyed the ride! 4.25 stars.

I'm feeling all the feels...

The premise sounded so promising, and there was so much that could have been done with this. But it fell flat for me. For over two thirds of the book, nothing happened. The characters were one dimensional and the writing felt stilted and unnatural (I am willing to forgive this, as English is not the author's first language).

There was also a gross underrepresentation of women in the book - honestly, I'm not one to insist on gender inclusion in every book I read, I'm not that sensitive to political correctness and not prone to the general outrage that permeates everything these days - but this almost seemed misogynistic.

Nope, no, nopity, no!

1.5 stars (because I finished it!)