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A review by sarah_faichney
Better Confess by Alan Gorevan
5.0
Alan Gorevan writes a mean thriller and is an astute observer of the human condition. "Better Confess" is a prime example. Short chapters throughout contribute to the fast-paced nature of the narrative. He really gets inside his characters to allow us to see things from their perspective. Through characters Thomas and Archie, we have the opportunity to consider the multiple facets of man, and confront the fact that people are seldom all good or all bad - most of us residing somewhere on a spectrum in-between. Gorevan is a very visual writer which has a transporting effect on the reader. As for his ability to build suspense and tension? It just about kills you. There are a couple of twists in "Better Confess" to which the only possible response is a loud expletive, expelled at high volume.
Gorevan's work is deceptively easy to read, possessing a gluttonously moreish nature. However, through this lens of exploiting our worst (plausible) fears, he explores more complex themes such as patriarchal class-based structures, identity and belonging. I found the commentary on the perceived false equivalence of indentured servitude with the notion of an Irish slave trade interesting. It takes a certain kind of bravery to touch upon such an emotive subject, even in a fictional context. I had no prior knowledge of the Red Legs but found the history fascinating and feel some further reading is required on my part. Though that's only a relatively small section of a book which sent me down several Google rabbit holes.
Overall, Gorevan's plotting is first class. Every strand is tied together expertly, resulting in an extremely compulsive and satisfying read.
Gorevan's work is deceptively easy to read, possessing a gluttonously moreish nature. However, through this lens of exploiting our worst (plausible) fears, he explores more complex themes such as patriarchal class-based structures, identity and belonging. I found the commentary on the perceived false equivalence of indentured servitude with the notion of an Irish slave trade interesting. It takes a certain kind of bravery to touch upon such an emotive subject, even in a fictional context. I had no prior knowledge of the Red Legs but found the history fascinating and feel some further reading is required on my part. Though that's only a relatively small section of a book which sent me down several Google rabbit holes.
Overall, Gorevan's plotting is first class. Every strand is tied together expertly, resulting in an extremely compulsive and satisfying read.