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Something She's Not Telling Us
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Named most anticipated book of 2020 by Cosmopolitan, Women's Wear Daily, Woman's Day, She Reads, The...
Suswatibasu (1703 KP) rated The Trespasser: Dublin Murder Squad in Books
Dec 11, 2017
Good, realistic but fairly anti-climactic
Tana French's look into the Dublin police force is gritty and rather depressing, filled with backbiting and even sabotage. It is gripping in the beginning, seeing a murder investigation almost in real time. The downfall of this book, ironically, is its length, having revealed most of the plot three-quarters of the way through the novel.
The plot of The Trespasser centres on a murder investigation viewed as a straightforward domestic with the murderer being the victim’s boyfriend, but Antoinette and Steve discover something far more sinister. The obvious suspect is subjected to interrogation in a most unorthodox and questionable manner with harsh treatment and language that is likely to be unconvincing to readers – and hopefully is far-fetched. Narrative is largely via Antoinette, and her language and dialogue are irritatingly intrusive throughout the book.
In addition to background support a third detective is added to the team who attempts to force an early arrest of the prime suspect, but Antoinette and Steve are looking elsewhere. The plot becomes hugely complex as corruption is exposed and doubts creep in that the murderer may be closer than the murder victim’s boyfriend. With that being said, the to-ing and fro-ing between three suspects becomes tedious and the big reveal as a result, is rather anti-climactic. Interesting read nevertheless.
The plot of The Trespasser centres on a murder investigation viewed as a straightforward domestic with the murderer being the victim’s boyfriend, but Antoinette and Steve discover something far more sinister. The obvious suspect is subjected to interrogation in a most unorthodox and questionable manner with harsh treatment and language that is likely to be unconvincing to readers – and hopefully is far-fetched. Narrative is largely via Antoinette, and her language and dialogue are irritatingly intrusive throughout the book.
In addition to background support a third detective is added to the team who attempts to force an early arrest of the prime suspect, but Antoinette and Steve are looking elsewhere. The plot becomes hugely complex as corruption is exposed and doubts creep in that the murderer may be closer than the murder victim’s boyfriend. With that being said, the to-ing and fro-ing between three suspects becomes tedious and the big reveal as a result, is rather anti-climactic. Interesting read nevertheless.
LucyB (47 KP) rated Big Little Lies in Books
Jul 23, 2017
Magnificently clever, darkly humorous, thought-provoking read.
Sigh. I do so love it when I finish a book and wish it wasn't finished! Big Little Lies is absolutely one of the best books I've read for a while, and absolutely had me hooked from start to finish.
The story focuses on three main characters: bolshy Madeleine, mousy Jane and beautiful Celeste - who share a common bond; they have children starting the same kindergarten class. However, things go swiftly wrong when Jane's child Ziggy is accused of trying to strangle another child - a situation that soon escalates with alarming consequences.
The book captures playground politics to perfection (I'm wagering the author MUST have kids of her own), but goes far beyond exploring the behaviour of over-zealous school mums. It also examines the insanity of bullying, how quickly situations can spiral out of control, and the horror of domestic abuse. In spite of handling some weighty issues, it also manages to be quite darkly amusing and highly wry.
The characters are likeable, engaging and relateable (I'd guess most mothers reading this book would instinctively 'gravitate' towards one of the three protagonists). And the ending? I won't spoil it - but put it like this, I certainly didn't see it coming.
Love love love this book. Definitely one to read, folks!
The story focuses on three main characters: bolshy Madeleine, mousy Jane and beautiful Celeste - who share a common bond; they have children starting the same kindergarten class. However, things go swiftly wrong when Jane's child Ziggy is accused of trying to strangle another child - a situation that soon escalates with alarming consequences.
The book captures playground politics to perfection (I'm wagering the author MUST have kids of her own), but goes far beyond exploring the behaviour of over-zealous school mums. It also examines the insanity of bullying, how quickly situations can spiral out of control, and the horror of domestic abuse. In spite of handling some weighty issues, it also manages to be quite darkly amusing and highly wry.
The characters are likeable, engaging and relateable (I'd guess most mothers reading this book would instinctively 'gravitate' towards one of the three protagonists). And the ending? I won't spoil it - but put it like this, I certainly didn't see it coming.
Love love love this book. Definitely one to read, folks!
Andy K (10823 KP) rated Fried Green Tomatoes (1991) in Movies
May 18, 2019
Onscreen female friendships are the best!
When a friendship between an awkward tomboy and a shy girl blossoms into a thriving southern business in 1930s Alabama, the two young women have much to deal with including racism, domestic violence and even a murder.
Meanwhile, a middle aged woman meets a kindly old lady in a nursing home. The old woman begins to tell the tale of the two girls. The woman is intrigued and keeps coming back for more.
How does it all turn out? Does the girls' friendship endure and persevere?
I remember seeing this film when it was first released in 1991, but didn't revisit until yesterday.
Hot off their Academy Award wins, Kathy Bates and Jessica Tandy are just marvelous and Mary Louise Parker and Mary Stuart Masterson are perfect as the young woman forming their lifelong bond.
Even book author Fannie Flagg makes an appearance during one of the group sessions the middle aged woman attends. They get to talk about their vaginas! (Having never done so myself, I can't see the fascination!)
I think this ranks with Steel Magnolias as one of my favorite this type of film I have seen. Just poignant and one of those "Dramedy" "Happy/Sad" kind of films.
Meanwhile, a middle aged woman meets a kindly old lady in a nursing home. The old woman begins to tell the tale of the two girls. The woman is intrigued and keeps coming back for more.
How does it all turn out? Does the girls' friendship endure and persevere?
I remember seeing this film when it was first released in 1991, but didn't revisit until yesterday.
Hot off their Academy Award wins, Kathy Bates and Jessica Tandy are just marvelous and Mary Louise Parker and Mary Stuart Masterson are perfect as the young woman forming their lifelong bond.
Even book author Fannie Flagg makes an appearance during one of the group sessions the middle aged woman attends. They get to talk about their vaginas! (Having never done so myself, I can't see the fascination!)
I think this ranks with Steel Magnolias as one of my favorite this type of film I have seen. Just poignant and one of those "Dramedy" "Happy/Sad" kind of films.
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated Killing Her Softly in Books
May 22, 2019
Afraid for her life after spending ten years in an abusive marriage, Kate Finelli has to find the courage to get herself out. When she calls the sheriffs office, she hears a familiar voice--Jack, the first man to show her love. Can Kate trust him to help her get away from the long-suffering abuse?
Jack left Harpers Glen for a career in the FBI. Hes returned to fill in for the sheriff, the man who mentored him his whole life. With strained family ties, Jack doesnt plan on staying in this small town for long, until a panicked call comes in from Kate. He left when she chose his brother, but must stay to help her now.
With the backdrop of a murder investigation and threatening notes, Kate and Jack find each other again. Will the tension within their family keep them apart? Or will their struggle for safety bring them together after all these years?
This is a fast paced romance mixed with some suspense. This story does deal with domestic violence.
Cleverly written and brought together.
Enjoyed the storyline and the plot.
Very believable characters and developed out well.
Enjoyable quick read.
Recommend reading.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and the publisher. This is my honest voluntary review.
Jack left Harpers Glen for a career in the FBI. Hes returned to fill in for the sheriff, the man who mentored him his whole life. With strained family ties, Jack doesnt plan on staying in this small town for long, until a panicked call comes in from Kate. He left when she chose his brother, but must stay to help her now.
With the backdrop of a murder investigation and threatening notes, Kate and Jack find each other again. Will the tension within their family keep them apart? Or will their struggle for safety bring them together after all these years?
This is a fast paced romance mixed with some suspense. This story does deal with domestic violence.
Cleverly written and brought together.
Enjoyed the storyline and the plot.
Very believable characters and developed out well.
Enjoyable quick read.
Recommend reading.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and the publisher. This is my honest voluntary review.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Everything, Everything in Books
Feb 1, 2018
Madeline Whittier (Maddy) has SCID, an immunity disorder (think "bubble boy") that confines her to her home. Even stepping outside could kill her. Therefore, she lives alone with her Mom, limited to contact with her and her nurse, Carla. For most of her seventeen years, Maddy has been fine with this, until Olly and his family move next door. Suddenly, Maddy finds herself questioning everything about her life.
For me, this was a lovely and touching book. I fell head over heels for Maddy and Olly and their angsty, teen love. The book is fun, with the writing interspersed with Maddy's drawings and sketches (done by Yoon's husband). A scene with a bundt cake is priceless (trust me). Maddy's voice is fresh and it's interesting to "see" the world through her eyes -- as someone who hasn't been outside since she was a baby. The supporting characters are spare, due to Maddy's limited life, but I loved her nurse, Carla, and Olly. Maddy's mom is a formidable character, as well.
The book takes on a lot - Maddy's illness, domestic violence, teen love, mental illness - I think a lesser author could have easily stumbled. It's not perfect, of course, but I still found myself swept up in Maddy's life and story. It's beautiful, touching, and fun. Definitely a worthy read - one of my favorites that I read this year.
For me, this was a lovely and touching book. I fell head over heels for Maddy and Olly and their angsty, teen love. The book is fun, with the writing interspersed with Maddy's drawings and sketches (done by Yoon's husband). A scene with a bundt cake is priceless (trust me). Maddy's voice is fresh and it's interesting to "see" the world through her eyes -- as someone who hasn't been outside since she was a baby. The supporting characters are spare, due to Maddy's limited life, but I loved her nurse, Carla, and Olly. Maddy's mom is a formidable character, as well.
The book takes on a lot - Maddy's illness, domestic violence, teen love, mental illness - I think a lesser author could have easily stumbled. It's not perfect, of course, but I still found myself swept up in Maddy's life and story. It's beautiful, touching, and fun. Definitely a worthy read - one of my favorites that I read this year.
Erika (17789 KP) rated The Lottery and Other Stories in Books
Jun 19, 2019
I've been wanting to read this collection of stories ever since I finished Jackson's @We Have Always Lived in the Castle . The Lottery was a shocking story (apparently) at the time of it's publishing.
The first section was, by far, my favorite, because I could relate to it the most. It consisted of stories of people in plain site that were often ignored, or felt like they didn't belong anywhere. Because I found I could relate to the stories so well, I was completely unnerved that someone could put those feelings into words.
The other sections of stories were mostly domestic/family oriented, which I have no interest in. Nothing bores me more than a stories about children. So, yawn, and that's why I haven't rated this higher.
Finally, The Lottery; now, I can understand why it may have been shocking at the time... Now, not so much. Obviously, with the release of such books that take inspiration from it, i.e., The Hunger Games, it didn't seem new or disturbing. Even South Park had an episode taking inspiration from it; the Britney Spears ep that came out in 2007.
So, loved the first section, and the other sections were just ok. It was kind of cool to see the genesis of future literature that was inspired by "The Lottery".
The first section was, by far, my favorite, because I could relate to it the most. It consisted of stories of people in plain site that were often ignored, or felt like they didn't belong anywhere. Because I found I could relate to the stories so well, I was completely unnerved that someone could put those feelings into words.
The other sections of stories were mostly domestic/family oriented, which I have no interest in. Nothing bores me more than a stories about children. So, yawn, and that's why I haven't rated this higher.
Finally, The Lottery; now, I can understand why it may have been shocking at the time... Now, not so much. Obviously, with the release of such books that take inspiration from it, i.e., The Hunger Games, it didn't seem new or disturbing. Even South Park had an episode taking inspiration from it; the Britney Spears ep that came out in 2007.
So, loved the first section, and the other sections were just ok. It was kind of cool to see the genesis of future literature that was inspired by "The Lottery".
Eilidh G Clark (177 KP) rated (Un)arranged Marriage in Books
Jul 2, 2019
This is a funny book
Contains spoilers, click to show
This is the first book I've read for pleasure since I completed my 3rd year at university. This is the type of book I enjoy and I wasn't disappointed.
The story is written in first person from the point of view of a young English Indian boy. It begins on his wedding day and his nervousness and anger at being forced into an arranged marriage. The author then writes the book in retrospect, and takes the reader back three years. The story explores the difficulty of the protagonist who struggles to adhere to his family's traditional views and religion. He endures years of beatings from his alcoholic father and emotional blackmail from his mother. He is beaten and ridiculed by his older brothers and his intimate narration allows the reader to discover his feelings of 'otherness'amongst his family whilst he attempts to live a normal life as an ordinary English boy. The author explores racism, poverty, domestic violence, neglect and love through the use of bildungsroman which concludes with the protagonist choosing his own path in life. It is by no means a happy ending, but it demonstrates determination and an understanding of a culture that the character is unable to comprehend.
Interesting and easy novel to read.
The story is written in first person from the point of view of a young English Indian boy. It begins on his wedding day and his nervousness and anger at being forced into an arranged marriage. The author then writes the book in retrospect, and takes the reader back three years. The story explores the difficulty of the protagonist who struggles to adhere to his family's traditional views and religion. He endures years of beatings from his alcoholic father and emotional blackmail from his mother. He is beaten and ridiculed by his older brothers and his intimate narration allows the reader to discover his feelings of 'otherness'amongst his family whilst he attempts to live a normal life as an ordinary English boy. The author explores racism, poverty, domestic violence, neglect and love through the use of bildungsroman which concludes with the protagonist choosing his own path in life. It is by no means a happy ending, but it demonstrates determination and an understanding of a culture that the character is unable to comprehend.
Interesting and easy novel to read.