beriboo's reviews
378 reviews

In Second Place by Rachel Cusk, the pretentious nature of the book is evident from the beginning. I have not read any of Cusk’s other books, but I very much doubt I will be trying them after struggling through this.

The characters come across as elitist and self-absorbed, making it difficult to feel any empathy or connection with them. Their actions and dialogue often feel contrived, as if they are trying too hard to be profound or intellectual. This sense of pretentiousness permeates the entire novel, creating a barrier between the reader and the story.

Additionally, the lack of likable characters further hampers the reading experience. Without anyone to root for or care about, it becomes challenging to invest in the unfolding narrative. The characters' unrelatable personalities and questionable motives only serve to alienate the reader, making it hard to become emotionally engaged with the story.

It  didn’t help that I had the audiobook and it was awful. I was thinking that the accent couldn’t be real, there is a slight Moira Rose tint to it. Then I saw the narrator was English and realised it was just a bad American accent. There was also a change in volume at the start of the sentences compared to the end that was quite jarring.

Overall, Second Place by Rachel Cusk is a book that falls short of expectations. Its pretentious tone, unlikable characters, and meandering plot combine to create a reading experience that is tedious and unsatisfying. I would caution potential readers to approach this book with caution, as it may not live up to their expectations.

Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi is a novel that skillfully weaves together themes of family dynamics, faith, addiction, mental health, and the immigrant experience. Gyasi's writing is both lyrical and introspective, inviting readers to delve deep into the inner workings of protagonist Gifty's mind as she grapples with her past and present. The novel's exploration of Gifty's scientific research on addiction and depression, juxtaposed with her family's devout Christian beliefs, creates a rich tapestry of conflicting ideologies and emotional complexities.

While the pacing of the novel may feel slow at times, this deliberate approach allows for a more profound exploration of the characters and their inner struggles. Gifty's journey of self-discovery and reconciliation is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, and the raw honesty with which Gyasi portrays her struggles resonates with readers on a deeply emotional level.

Overall, Transcendent Kingdom is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned. Gyasi's ability to blend personal narrative with larger societal issues creates a compelling narrative that is both relatable and enlightening. This book is a must-read for anyone looking for a beautifully written and emotionally resonant story that delves into the complexities of the human experience.

Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner is a deeply personal and introspective memoir that explores themes of identity, grief, and cultural heritage. Zauner's writing is both lyrical and raw, drawing readers into her world as she navigates the complexities of her Korean-American identity and grapples with the loss of her mother to cancer.

One of the strengths of this memoir is Zauner's ability to vividly evoke the sights, sounds, and emotions of her experiences, particularly her memories of her mother and their shared love of food. The way she weaves together anecdotes from her childhood and reflections on her adult life creates a poignant and immersive reading experience.

While I appreciated the emotional depth and honesty of Zauner's storytelling, I did find some parts of the book to be a bit repetitive and slow-paced. The focus on her grief and the grieving process, while understandable given the central theme of the memoir, at times felt overwhelming and overshadowed other aspects of her story.

Overall, Crying in H Mart is a poignant and moving memoir that offers a glimpse into the complexities of grief and cultural identity. While it may not be a light or easy read, it is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of love, loss, and the ways in which food and memory can shape our lives. I would recommend this book to readers who appreciate introspective and emotionally resonant memoirs.

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman is a beautifully written novel that delves deep into the life of the main character, Eleanor Oliphant. At first glance, Eleanor may seem like an odd and socially awkward individual, but as the story unfolds, we learn about the trauma and loneliness that have shaped her into the person she is today. 

What I loved most about this book is how the author skillfully balances moments of humor and light-heartedness with the darker themes of loneliness, mental health, and trauma. Despite the heavy subject matter, Honeyman's writing style is engaging and witty, making it a surprisingly uplifting read.

The character development in this book is truly exceptional. Eleanor is a complex and nuanced character, and as the reader, I found myself deeply invested in her journey towards self-discovery and healing. The relationships she forms with those around her, particularly with Raymond, are heartwarming and genuine, adding depth and warmth to the story.

Overall, Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel that stayed with me long after I finished reading it. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a captivating and moving story about the power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit.

Just finished The Glass Hotel by Emily St. John Mandel and, well, I'm feeling a bit torn. The book had some really interesting ideas that caught my attention, but I couldn't quite figure out what the overall story was supposed to be about. It felt like there were all these intriguing threads that were introduced but never really explored or developed further. The writing was beautiful and the characters were engaging, but I found myself wanting more depth and resolution in the plot. Overall, an enjoyable read with some thought-provoking moments, but left me feeling a bit uncertain. 

The Secret Adversary by Agatha Christie is a classic mystery novel that showcases the author's unparalleled skill in crafting intricate plots and compelling characters. Set in post-World War I England, the story follows the dynamic duo of Tommy and Tuppence as they stumble upon a web of espionage, deceit, and danger.

What makes this novel stand out is Christie's ability to create a sense of urgency and suspense that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. The pacing is fast-paced, with twists and turns that constantly challenge the reader's assumptions and keep them guessing about the true identity of the secret adversary. The clever and witty banter between Tommy and Tuppence adds a touch of humor and charm to the narrative, making them endearing protagonists that readers can't help but root for.

In addition to the thrilling plot and well-developed characters, The Secret Adversary also offers a glimpse into the social and political climate of the post-war era, adding depth and richness to the story. Christie's attention to detail and her ability to create a vivid sense of time and place transport readers to a bygone era, immersing them in the world of Tommy and Tuppence.

Overall, The Secret Adversary is a masterfully crafted mystery novel that showcases Agatha Christie at the top of her game. With its blend of suspense, intrigue, and wit, this book is a must-read for fans of classic detective fiction and anyone looking for a riveting and entertaining read.

A Captivating Reunion with Old Friends

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

As an avid Agatha Christie fan, I recently embarked on a delightful journey of revisiting one of her timeless classics, A Mysterious Affair at Styles. This re-read was a sheer pleasure, and it reminded me once again why Christie's works continue to captivate readers even after so many years.

One of the most significant pros of this novel is undoubtedly the opportunity to be reintroduced to one of Christie's most beloved characters, the astute and eccentric Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot. His remarkable wit, sharp observations, and quirky behavior never fail to charm readers, and this story is no exception. Poirot's presence in the narrative adds an air of excitement and anticipation, making it impossible to resist following him as he unravels the intricacies of the baffling murder case at Styles.

Another aspect that made this re-read a joyous experience was witnessing the deep friendship between Poirot and his loyal sidekick, Captain Arthur Hastings. Their camaraderie and dynamic partnership provide a refreshing contrast to Poirot's brilliant mind. Hastings, with his earnestness and occasional moments of befuddlement, serves as the perfect foil to Poirot's genius. Their interactions, filled with banter and genuine affection, not only add depth to the story but also ensure that readers become emotionally invested in their journey.

Agatha Christie's masterful storytelling, as always, keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The plot is intricately woven, with a myriad of suspects and red herrings that keep us guessing until the very end. The meticulous attention to detail, coupled with Christie's ability to sprinkle subtle clues throughout the narrative, ensures that the reader is constantly engaged in a game of mental deduction.

While A Mysterious Affair at Styles may not be among Christie's most complex or surprising mysteries, it still showcases her exceptional talent for crafting a compelling whodunit. The plot may appear straightforward at times, but it is Christie's skillful execution and her ability to keep readers enthralled with her characters that truly shine.

In conclusion, revisiting A Mysterious Affair at Styles was a delightful experience, thanks to the chance to reconnect with beloved characters, particularly the indomitable Hercule Poirot, and witness the captivating friendship between him and Captain Hastings. Agatha Christie's timeless storytelling and the cleverly constructed mystery make this novel a must-read for both fans of her work and those new to her stories.

DNF’d halfway through but had to mark as finished because it’s part of a Reading Challenge.

I just didn’t like these characters at all. Roy is old fashioned to the point I had to check what decade the book is based in because of his views on women and marriage. 

Dre is the standard “nice guy” who has faked a friendship with a women who he actually wants to be with and feels like he has a right to her because of this.

But Celestial is the worst, she is self-centred and the result of raising a spoilt brat for a child. A person she loves is wrongfully convicted and sent to prison and she just walks away. It all of a sudden became too inconvenient for her, and how and when she tells Roy this is just awful.

I think the main thing about all of this that put me off is that I don’t think the author intended them to be such unlikeable characters. I think the idea is that we connect and empathise with them.

But I hated them, I hated what  Celestial and Dre where doing and I’d had enough so DNF’d

"Fire Rush" by Jacqueline Crooks is an exquisite tapestry of storytelling that immerses readers in the vibrant world of Jamaican culture and the diaspora in 1970s England, pulsating with life, love, and the fire within. Crooks weaves a narrative that dances between history, culture, and the deeply personal, creating a mesmerising literary experience.

One of the book's standout strengths is Crooks' mastery in the art of character description. Each character in "Fire Rush" is vividly brought to life, with a level of detail that makes them feel like old friends or terrifying threats. The nuances of their personalities, desires, and struggles are so meticulously portrayed that you can almost hear their voices and feel their presence. Even for those characters that are the "villains" in the story, Crooks' ability to write such depth to these characters results in an understanding towards their behaviour, even though you hold a strong feeling of dislike. 

At the heart of the story is the remarkable main character, Yamaye. Crooks not only crafts a protagonist but a living, breathing soul. The love for Yamaye is palpable throughout the narrative, as the author skillfully delves into her innermost thoughts and emotions. You don't just read about Yamaye; you feel her joys, sorrows, and triumphs as if they were your own. The connection with her is so profound that you can't help but root for her at every twist and turn.

One of the most captivating aspects of "Fire Rush" is the use of patois in the prose. Crooks seamlessly incorporates the Jamaican patois into the dialogue and narration, adding an authentic and rhythmic layer to the narrative. This linguistic choice not only enhances the cultural richness of the story but also immerses the reader more deeply into the characters' lives. The patois becomes a vibrant and expressive tool, capturing the cadence of everyday life and enriching the narrative with the true essence of Jamaican culture. 

The prose in "Fire Rush" is nothing short of poetic. Crooks employs a lyrical and rhythmic style that elevates the narrative to a sensory experience. The words flow with an almost musical quality, enhancing the reader's immersion into the rich tapestry of Jamaican culture and history. The beauty of the prose lies not only in what is said but in how it is said, evoking emotions that linger long after the final page is turned.

However, the story falls just shy of a perfect 5-star rating due to the inclusion of some instances of sexual violence halfway through the book. While not pervasive, these scenes were personally unsettling, and they affected my overall enjoyment of an otherwise beautifully crafted narrative. This is, of course, a subjective response, but it is worth noting for readers who may share similar sensitivities. 

In conclusion, "Fire Rush" is a triumph in storytelling. Jacqueline Crooks has crafted a narrative that not only paints a vivid picture of Jamaica but also captures the essence of the human spirit. With characters that leap off the page, a protagonist who becomes a cherished companion, and prose that dances with grace, "Fire Rush" is a literary gem that will leave readers yearning for more.

I recently finished reading "Do No Harm" by Jack Jordan, and I must say, it left me quite disappointed. While I appreciate the effort put into crafting a psychological thriller, the overall execution fell flat, earning it a mere 2-star rating from me.

First and foremost, the storyline was simply absurd. I found it difficult to suspend my disbelief as the plot unfolded, with numerous improbable twists and turns that strained the boundaries of plausibility. It felt as though the author was more focused on creating shock value rather than constructing a coherent and believable narrative. This lack of realism greatly hindered my ability to become fully invested in the story.

The biggest issue I had with this book was my complete lack of emotional connection to the main characters, Anna and Margo. Despite the author's attempts to make them relatable and sympathetic, I found myself indifferent to their plights. Their actions and motivations felt contrived and unconvincing, leaving me detached from their struggles. As a result, I couldn't bring myself to care about their well-being or the outcomes of their predicaments.

Furthermore, the inclusion of the police storyline felt entirely unnecessary. It seemed like an afterthought, clumsily shoehorned into the plot to create a false sense of suspense. The constant back-and-forth between the personal struggles of the characters and the police investigation only served to muddle the narrative further. It would have been far more effective to focus solely on developing a compelling psychological thriller without the unnecessary distractions.

All in all, "Do No Harm" left much to be desired. The absurd storyline, coupled with my apathy towards the characters and the unnecessary police subplot, made for a disappointing reading experience. While there were moments of tension and suspense, they were overshadowed by the overall lack of cohesiveness and believability. If you're looking for a psychological thriller that captivates and engages, I would suggest looking elsewhere.