Reviews

This novel was so incredibly “interior” as I’ve come to describe novels that are so intent on memory, emotions, personal connection. While there was some “action” and “plot” to the novel — I almost hesitate to think of these elements as relevant to this novel. Rather, I see so much of this story as focusing more on the response to something. Greenwell seems, from my take, to take to developing a character (the narrator) and a story that is responding to a particular vibe/moment/character. And when the novel goes back in time in the second part to have this reflective take on the narrator’s past, again, the story and narrator seem to be emerging through reflection. [Ok, so I’m not quite sure what I’m getting at here because I haven’t let the thoughts develop as much as I think I could and need to in order to explain. But I hope the idea is somewhat clear…] Thinking about my aesthetic response, I found the moments set in the “current day” of the story stronger, more developed, and engaging. I look forward to reading the follow-up to this story, which Greenwell extends in his second novel.

brooklynbookist's review against another edition

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dark reflective sad slow-paced

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

2.5

johndiconsiglio's review against another edition

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3.0

An American teacher in Bulgaria has a rendezvous with a gay hustler in a museum bathroom. That’s the opening scene in this small but extraordinarily intense novel. Their relationship—fueled by a kinda scary sexual obsession along with surprising moments of tenderness—spans years & serves as a touchstone for the author’s introspective take on desire & danger. There’s a Death in Venice feel to the tightly controlled prose. I don’t shock easy, but there were moments here that made me wince. I’m not sure what to make of it, but it’s undeniably gripping.

bushraboblai's review against another edition

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5.0

Mitko is such a flawed yet unforgettable character. At the end of the book, I still couldn't make up my mind on whether or not he was a "good" person or not. The narrator himself, was so intriguing. His name was a source of frustration but if it were revealed wouldn't have had the same effect on the story as his easily disappearing identity did. I totally loved this book.

chaotic17's review against another edition

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dark emotional mysterious reflective sad tense slow-paced

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

5.0

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