Reviews

Bodies is Foley’s debut novel and is due for publication in July this year. Here’s my advice: pre-order a copy immediately because it’s sure to fly off the shelves.

Charlotte, our protagonist, tells her story through a stream-of-consciousness style that weaves back and forth in a rather fragmented way, which works exceptionally well in building an unflinchingly gripping and thought-provoking read.

Charlotte focuses on the relationships she has had with men - and what toxic lot they were. However, we get glimpses of her childhood and a traumatic event that changed her life forever, significantly impacting her psychological well-being. Flawed Charlotte may be, but she demonstrates incredible insight and perception.

Essentially, the book is a hate letter to a particular type of man, driven by Charlotte’s rage and grief. It also addresses broader societal issues around bodily autonomy, promiscuity, and rape culture.

Unfortunately, the situations Charlotte faces will be uncomfortably familiar to many women, but they must be talked about. I’ll undoubtedly be thinking on her story for a long while to come.

Bodies is a darkly raw yet astute and highly compelling read that’ll keep you hooked from beginning to end, and at around 200 pages, it’ll be one you’ll want to devour in one sitting.

My one tiny criticism is that the story ended a little abruptly; I’d have liked a slightly longer read with more delving into the plot twist, about which I’ll say no more! 4.5⭐️

Thank you to John Murray Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy. As always, this is an honest review.

kikireadsstuff's review

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3.5

This poignant novel offers a vivid depiction of Ireland's cultural landscape, tracing the journey of a teenage girl transitioning into womanhood amidst the chaos of her surroundings. Delving into themes of sexuality, relationships, and drug experimentation, the narrative exposes the harsh realities of how women are often mistreated within the backdrop of Ireland's prevalent drug and "lad" culture.

The author skillfully captures the protagonist's inner turmoil through a stream of consciousness narrative style, immersing readers in her tumultuous thoughts and emotions. While this approach effectively enhances the authenticity of the story, it occasionally contributes to a sense of chaos that may challenge readers to keep pace.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its unflinching exploration of the stigma and shame surrounding female promiscuity and sexual agency. Through the protagonist's experiences, the narrative sheds light on the societal pressures and double standards faced by women in navigating their own desires.

Despite its dark and triggering nature, the novel's conclusion is both poignant and expected, offering a fitting resolution to the protagonist's journey. However, the inclusion of an epilogue leaves room for interpretation, prompting readers to ponder its significance and whether it adds depth to the narrative or detracts from its impact.

Overall, this raw and compelling portrayal of Irish culture offers a thought-provoking commentary on the challenges faced by young women in a society grappling with issues of identity, sexuality, and societal expectations.

naseerahl's review against another edition

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dark emotional reflective sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? N/A
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

carammcdermott's review

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Trigger warning : suicide

Just unrelentingly dark. Not insightful or illuminating or constructive in its telling. Grim.

booksandpasta's review

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dark emotional reflective sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

brons_books's review against another edition

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dark mysterious reflective fast-paced

5.0

whatkatereadnext's review against another edition

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dark tense fast-paced

5.0

tiasy97's review

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4.25

I went into this not really knowing what it was about and to be honest I was pleasantly surprised! I really enjoyed reading about the different relationships and a lot of things that were said resonated with me. This story is a FUCK YOU to the men that gaslight, abuse, manipulate and use women. I am so on side w that. And the ending knocked me sideways, I don’t know how but I really did not see it coming. Very gripping read - but I am a nosy bitch and love reading about peoples relationships which is essentially what this is (even if it is fictional)

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