A review by whisperingleaf
Katarsis by Anastasia Aemilia

dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? N/A
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.25

"Katarsis" by Anastasia Aemilia was my first foray into the world of Indonesian psychological thrillers, and I must say it not only met my expectations but exceeded them. Once I started this book, I found it nearly impossible to put down.

The author's writing style in this book leans towards the formal side. While some may find it a bit stiff, I personally appreciated it.

One notable aspect of the book is the dual perspective, switching between Tara and Ello. However, it's worth mentioning that the transitions between these two points of view weren't always crystal clear. At times, I had to double-check to confirm who was narrating in a particular chapter.

One element that left me wanting more was the exploration of motives and reasons behind the characters' actions. We get a glimpse into Tara's childhood and her behavior, particularly her interactions with her parents. Similarly, we see a bit about Ello's background, but there's a gap in understanding what drives these teenagers to become extremely wild and violent. The saying goes, "The apple doesn't fall far from the tree," but what specifically led them down this path?

Nevertheless, despite this curiosity, the book remains an enjoyable read. As someone who doesn't often explore Indonesian literature, I found "Katarsis" to be a captivating and engaging experience.