sam_fielder_137's review against another edition
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
1.5
This book made me feel like I don't know how to read. From page 1 I was confused, and not in the fun, cozy, mysterious way. In the "what even is this book about" way. I don't even have anything to say because I don't even know what I just read. Probably better on the reread, but not worth the reread.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Trafficking
jameskennedy's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
I hoped given Didion's ability to capture an entire climate by telling the story of only a handful of people that this would be much better than it was. Maybe not the best book to start with for her fiction stuff but I think I definitely prefer her more journalistic work.
andrewtaets's review against another edition
4.75
Loved the style on this, though toward the middle it muddied the story for a tiny bit. Gripping and twisty.
pranaysomayajula's review against another edition
dark
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
thetwirlonthetrain's review against another edition
dark
informative
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
3.0
hschubert's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Glad to have read this classic though I wish I knew more about the political narrative it covers. The real involvement of the US in Nicaragua etc. tragic, but expendable was the point.