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ubisunt's review
challenging
dark
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I liked the themes of the book and the parallels set up between characters, but was really disappointed by an unsatisfying ending and the failure of any characters to have meaningful growth. < spoiler> I think it's consistent with the rest of the book that we don't get clear answers at the end, but I think there would have been a way to make it satisfying without outright revealing a single eminent truth.
I recommend it as a different kind of read, but don't expect a very fulfilling ending.
I recommend it as a different kind of read, but don't expect a very fulfilling ending.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Death of parent, Drug abuse, and Cancer
robinudell's review
challenging
dark
mysterious
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Fans of the You're Wrong About podcast will appreciate the Satanic Panic element and the name dropping of Michelle Remembers in this book! A lot of the writing was interesting, and there were a few moments when text messages or other distractions were visually worked into the narrative very effectively. The running themes of dissociation, being unsure what is real, and how people make meaning out of the things we experience were all solid, although I could have done without the "is this or that person a ~sociopath~" angle. I would have also liked more from Wave's perspective. Overall, pretty good! If you're not in a place to read about terminal illness, sexual abuse of children, lots of drug use, or a possible serial killer, maybe sit this one out.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cancer, Child abuse, Death, Death of parent, Drug abuse, and Drug use
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