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wrightdobiez's review against another edition
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
i’m all for a book with an ending that’s open for interpretation. i love books with tragic endings or nuanced endings or subtle endings. however, the ending of this one was a bit too esoteric. the incredible pickup in pace in the last 5 pages after a slog of a third act was refreshing and very enjoyable, but it abruptly stopped somewhere that felt unfinished. however, the book itself is genius and i would be remiss to knock down stars for one iffy ending. the style is beautiful and unique, and highly specific yet still detached musings of the political figures makes them easily transportable into any modern country—a scary thought given how accurate a web of deceit and lies saramago creates. a stunning satire and a satire that’s a departure from ones i normally read! excellent.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence
Moderate: Gun violence and Rape