Reviews

Tara Road by Maeve Binchy

bsolarz's review against another edition

2.0

The topics brought up in the book were, I felt, handled in a very disrespectful way. Especially in regards to Gertie and Jack where a very abusive relationship was occurring, and all the surrounding characters were tolerant of it. As their relationship was not the centre of the story, it probably would have been best if the characters had tried a little harder to put an end to it, and had not enabled further abuse.

In addition to this, even though this book was written by a woman, my opinion of all the women in the book was very poor. While there was only one stand out 'good person' in the book (Colm Barry), the women were portrayed as weak, dependent and pathetic which I really struggled with when reading. Character development was incredibly rushed and clumped together at the end, and even still it was minimal.

The book itself could have been reduced by about 200 pages, especially as we don't meet Marilyn Vine, the woman with whom Ria Lynch switched houses, until about 300 pages in. A lot of the dialogue and story lines were incredibly unnecessary or brought up and then not discussed or left hanging. I may have analysed this book far too heavily for a light summer read but I felt incredibly strongly about the book, especially the lack of powerful female figures.

book_lizard42's review

4.0

Oops, I read it again...

This book will always be dear to my heart. It's her best work, and it is such an incredible read. Let the record show, I loved it BEFORE the Oprah club discovered it.

alidottie's review

1.0

I actually only gave this book a half star! I remember someone recommended it. You can bet I didn't go back to that person for recommendations again!

colleengeedrumm's review against another edition

5.0

My first Maeve Binchy and not my last! SO glad I have finally tried her. I've had this book sitting on my bookshelf for 20 years. Ugh! So entertaining with real-life stories and characters I could totally understand, relate to, and aspire to.

vellichor_lover's review against another edition

funny hopeful inspiring reflective relaxing fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

kimblefairy1989's review against another edition

4.0

I've always enjoyed Maeve Binchy's books and this was no exception. She has all the good elements of a chick lit novelist but some of her outcomes are aren't always 'happy ever after' and are a little more true to life.

This book was incredibly read-able and I enjoyed it from the first pages right through to the last. Worth 4 stars from me.

returne's review

emotional lighthearted mysterious reflective relaxing slow-paced

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

4.0

aubtobobtolob's review

3.0

After reading this one I did go and read several others by her. She is a fun read.

logophile_life's review

emotional slow-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

2.5

lovesresqdogs's review against another edition

5.0

My favorite