A review by aindeck
Lapvona by Ottessa Moshfegh

dark tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

< spoiler> Lapvona is a bit of a departure from Moshfegh’s usual genre, but it definitely captured the same bleak outlook on human nature and the cycle of life. None of the characters are likable, but I think that’s the point. The book is about the village of Lapvona and the various people in it, the plot is not precise and focuses more on the different characters throughout their meaningless lives.  There are strong religious themes, which is why there is a lamb on the cover, the lamb of god. However, I think the only pure characters in the book are Jude’s lambs. Despite all the characters doing things in the name of religion they are not good people and have moral failings (like eat their neighbors). The characters don’t care when people die except for how it affects them and everyone is almost disillusioned by the horror that goes on around them. I think it is a well written book, but if you are looking for something with a positive outlook on humanity, this is not for you.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings