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4.13 AVERAGE
4.13 AVERAGE
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
inspiring
sad
fast-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:
N/A
Bravo!
While admittedly not at the same level of enthrallment as A Gentleman in Moscow, Towles’ writing and ability to curate characters for whom you actually care and understand their motivations is borderline peerless. The story itself deviated from my expectations, which, while surprising, didn’t necessarily disappoint. His writing is such that I would read Towles’ grocery list if he ever felt compelled to publish it. All said, it’s a novel I kept coming back to with the eagerness to see what happens next and, at the end of the day, isn’t that the telltale sign of a good book?
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
4.5 - I was engrossed in this novel and Towles ability to bring lightness and humor to what could have been very gritty subject matter. I think it was eventful enough to draw in more plot driven readers, but ultimately felt like a very character driven story to me (which I love). Not as good as A Gentleman in Moscow, but one that I would be happy to read again
I feel like I didn't have the right idea of what this book would be about, so I was caught off guard and my expectations were not met from the very beginning. I thought this would be a travelling story about two young brothers across America. Instead, we nver even see them on the highway. I struggled to sympathise or connect with any of the characters which left the tragedies of the book feeling flat for me and feeling as if they didn't align with the tone of the writing.
3.5 Stars I had a hard time with this one. I tried the audio, the actual book, and the ebook versions (
One of my favorites of the year. Will definitely purchase for my home library and reread. Just beautiful.
I enjoyed the clever structure of the book and revelations throughout the book. I liked the side characters and their stories, and appreciated the voice of each character. Billy’s innocence at times made me want to weep. This book is different from what the title or summary may suggest; as a surface read it was still fun. Easter eggs were scattered throughout.
*perfect* storytelling. It's going to be a while before I read something this good again.
adventurous
challenging
dark
lighthearted
reflective
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No