Reviews

I'd rate this closer to 3.75. Engaging to read, and there were some really interesting concepts that I thoroughly enjoyed delving into. The middle third especially was very compelling.

Like other reviewers have said, I found the "big reveal", both regarding Anne and regarding Sylvie, to be a bit lackluster. I didn't mind that I was able to parse together more or less what was happening with Sylvie, but I did expect it to be a little bit more complex and nuanced than it was, and for there to be more tied up into the aftermath. There was a large build up, and then it just kind of deflated. I can tell that this was a first novel, since I have read other books by Benjamin where all my complaints for this book were ironed out and things were better expanded upon. In other words, she had more practice.

I did really enjoy this book and would recommend it.

mcearl12's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

This was a very interesting, very well-written book. I rather enjoyed the second half more than the first half, but all in all, it was almost a 4-star book for me. Characters were well-developed, the concept was very interesting... there is that bit of mystery throughout, wondering what's really going on, is there anything more than meets the eye, here? I loved the writing style, and was thoroughly pulled in by the author's voice.

The only stumbling block...and it's not a small one...was the confusing chronology. I've read plenty of books that move back and forth in time and not had any problems following the separate threads, but I have to say that it really got in my way in this book. I'm not really sure why, but think that it may be because the differences in the characters lives between the years weren't always obvious...and it was a small difference in terms of number of years, as well. I really don't know if this was my failure of imagination/lack of attention, or an issue with the book, but that is really the only thing that kept me from giving it four stars. Great book, just a wee bit hard for me to keep track of where I was in time and space.

mysticalmanifest's review against another edition

Go to review page

medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated

3.75

rlevine's review against another edition

Go to review page

emotional mysterious reflective medium-paced

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

4.0

More...