A review by mrsrjg
The Other Half of Augusta Hope, by Joanna Glen
dark
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
relaxing
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This book blindsided me; it is not something that I had ever heard of but it was suggested for our book group so gave it a go and I'm so glad I did. First of all in reading the synopsis I came to the conclusion that I was the living embodiment of Augusta and having finished I conclude this is in fact correct (as a child I read the dictionary and my atlas for fun and also used to do maths problems under the covers at night š). Side note - as with Augusta picking Burundi as her favourite country based on the name, I also picked my favourite capital city this way (Ulaan Bator for those interested š).
As I digress, much as I feel Augusta would, I absolutely fell in love with this book and also with the character of Augusta; so much so that I was a bit downhearted when it came to Parfait'sĀ chapters, I understand why they were there though but just preferred them a little less. I normally don't like books where everything is connected as it always just feels a bit convenient but in this book it is done so well that I actually really enjoyed it.
The only other thing I felt a bit strange about was Diego not being told a big event towards the end which I didn't feel was right nor was it ever really explained why he wasn't told.
Apart from those minor issues, I absolutely loved this and it's absolutely a book I could read time and time again.
As I digress, much as I feel Augusta would, I absolutely fell in love with this book and also with the character of Augusta; so much so that I was a bit downhearted when it came to Parfait'sĀ chapters, I understand why they were there though but just preferred them a little less. I normally don't like books where everything is connected as it always just feels a bit convenient but in this book it is done so well that I actually really enjoyed it.
The only other thing I felt a bit strange about was Diego not being told a big event towards the end which I didn't feel was right nor was it ever really explained why he wasn't told.
Apart from those minor issues, I absolutely loved this and it's absolutely a book I could read time and time again.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Suicide and Child death