Reviews

The Patron Saint of Liars by Ann Patchett

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joanklko's review against another edition

3.0

I enjoyed the book, had compassion for the characters (save one), then was left hanging at the end. Did I miss something? I wasn't able to understand why Rose was the way she was. If Ms. Patchett hinted at the reasons they went over my head. It left me confused and sad.

alexworlund's review against another edition

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emotional reflective sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

michaelpdonley's review against another edition

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4.0

What's kind of fascinating here is that the main character is such an enigma. We never know why she makes the choices she makes or if she cares about the scars she leaves behind. But what a beautifully written book, full of great characters.

carbonaden's review against another edition

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emotional reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

lcf1023's review against another edition

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2.0

The initial set-up was so promising. Rose was such an enigmatic character and I looked forward to figuring her out over the course of the novel. The problem was that she remained an enigma until the very end. Patchett never delves into Rose's psyche, even when Rose is narrating. Once Son (one of the most yawn-worthy characters I've ever encountered) took over the narration, I thought we'd finally learn about Rose through another source. Not the case. The novel didn't really grab me until Cecilia took over the narration and then I couldn't put it down. Her character's voice was smart, lively and believable and the only one I'll miss. Yet the novel left me disappointed, feeling as though I'd undertaken a long and arduous journey with this characters, while never really going anywhere.