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jcxjab's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
I thought this book was really interesting. I love stories that just emulate the human form. I wish I had a better grasp of the characters themselves, I got them mixed up a lot and had a difficult time distinguishing them. I picked this book because I enjoyed the writing but I can't help but understand the actual connection Seamus had to the other characters at the end. Maybe I read too fast but nonetheless, I loved the writing. I didn't appreciate the mention of women in the synopsis and then the only mentions of them to be so short and vapid.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Abortion, Homophobia, Physical abuse, Sexual assault, Sexual harassment, Infidelity, Racial slurs, Toxic relationship, Mental illness, and Rape
introvertsbookclub's review against another edition
dark
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
3.75
I think Brandon Taylor’s writing is exceptional, so I’m disappointed that I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I did Real Life. There were lots of moments that I loved but altogether the novel felt lacking. In the absence of plot, it needed more substance or an overarching purpose to hold it together, but for me it didn’t deliver. The characters, their voices, the pacing, everything felt repetitive and lacklustre. Each chapter was an intriguing insight into an academic town and the graduates about to leave it, but it didn’t provide a new perspective or enough variety to keep me engaged. I am definitely in a bit of a reading funk which might explain my reading experience, but this novel was very depressing.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence, Sexual violence, and Racial slurs
claire_reardon's review against another edition
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
I need an epilogue where Ingrid, Helen, and Linda roast every male character in this book.
Rating is TBD 📚
Rating is TBD 📚
Content Warnings
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, Racial slurs, Sexual content, Toxic relationship, Death of parent, Gun violence, Abortion, Bullying, and Classism
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