A review by claudiaslibrarycard
The Lioness by Chris Bohjalian

adventurous challenging tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

The Lioness is billed as an adventure novel with 1960s Hollywood vibes, and it delivers on both. Told in many alternating perspectives, it is the story of 9 Hollywood elite going on safari in the Serengeti. Early on, things go very, very wrong for the group of travelers. 

Throughout this book, we learn more about the characters’ pasts in flashbacks interspersed with the deadly safari. The character development was top notch. I was impressed by the relatability of each character. Bohjalian clearly did extensive research and he defies my general opinions of most white male authors. I was impressed with how he wrote female characters and characters of color. His portrayal of racism focused on criticism rather than normalizing it or using it as a plot device. 

I am not typically an adventure reader but this book sucked me in and I loved it. The twist/reveal at the end was satisfying. I recommend this one for anyone who likes adventure, tension, human vs. nature, and Old Hollywood. 

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