Reviews

Eat Only When You're Hungry by Lindsay Hunter

meishe's review

4.0

For me this was more of a 3.5 but I rated high because of the writing. The high points where the writing style and the concept. It is obvious the author knows how to write and does it well with great insight and parallels. I also enjoyed the idea of exploring different types of addictions, how they come about, and the family dynamic.

Unfortunately the downside was that the high points fell flat, the climax at the end didn't make much sense and while I enjoyed the point that the ending made it wasn't a satisfying ending. it made the whole story feel as though there wasn't a purpose.

marshcoco's review against another edition

2.0

While I appreciate the writer showing the many facets of addiction, I just couldn’t connect.

slucyd's review against another edition

3.0

I'm pretty torn about my feelings on this book and I hovered between and 3 and 4 star rating for ages. It took me a really long time to get into it initially and I struggled to connect with, or even like, any of the characters. By the end though I felt sucked in and I appreciated the rawness of the book - Hunter never tries to fix anything, or explain away how people behave or feel. It's not a pretty book at all, the characters are so flawed and often unpleasant but every now and then there's a moment that takes your breath away. For me, the scene between father and son at the hotel bar broke my heart. While I wasn't as in love with this novel as I'd hoped I'd certainly still recommend it as those outstanding moments are something I've never found replicated in any other book.

theakate's review against another edition

3.0

Loved the setup, enjoyed the writing style, good characters. However it just lacked a little something that didn't tie it all together enough for me. Would read this author again.

melannrosenthal's review against another edition

3.0

Intensely introspective. A constant state of TMI. So uncomfortable to read but brief sparks of beautiful revelations sometimes temporarily light up the gross. Would have preferred more backstory up front (almost bailed at 15 pages) but Hunter managed to seamlessly switch between histories & present without confusion. Ultimately I think this compact novel is a gritty gem.

banana_hutch's review

4.0

A man embarks on a journey to locate his drug-addicted adult son, missing for three weeks. Through his memories, we learn about Greg's upbringing and his relationships (with people as well as with food). We get a look at his interactions with his son, his current wife, his ex-wife.

It's not the most uplifting tale, but it's well-written and I enjoyed it!

litlistening's review

4.0

I know why some may have issues with this book. But this was so tragically real that I’ve never found a near-60, fat white man so relatable. This is not a funny book, but it has its moments of tragic-comedy because it’s true. If you like reading about dysfunctional relationships (and not in the kooky sitcom way), then you’ll find something in this book.

robinf's review against another edition

4.0

I greatly appreciated the point of view of this novel - rarely do you hear from the father. But ultimately it is a sad tale, heart breaking, filled with regret and longing. Still, it is a good read as you keep hoping they will be redeemed, and they sort of are in the end.

mynightstandbooks's review against another edition

4.0

gonna have to think on this one for sure (rating may not stay)

morganhenley's review against another edition

4.0

I loved how this story was so light and so deep, simultaneously. A breeze to read through but left you with some heavy thoughts. What a great book about addiction, reckoning with your past, and the feeling of helplessness and self-loathing. I loved experiencing the female characters through the point of view of Greg, you felt as if you knew them better than if the novel had come from their own point of view. It also is mostly set in Florida, so it wins automatic points from this Floridian :)