Reviews

Engleby by Sebastian Faulks

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catump's review against another edition

1.0

Considering this novel involves University life, has a mystery/thriller aspect and is written by the author of Birdsong, it's a bit of a disappointment. I can't say too much without revealing spoilers-although saying that the plot and the narrator is fairly predictable (given the synopsis on the back cover). Mike reminded me of the narrator in the Wasp Factory-an equally odd and unlikable individual. Although I find having an unlikable protagonist an obstacle to enjoying a book, it's not impossible-The Collector was more interesting than Engleby and the narrator in that isn't likely to become your best friend, unless you're Ted Bundy. It's obviously well written and Mike's philosophical meanderings are probably quite interesting if you're reading the book for an essay or a book club, but for a simple, enjoyable read-skip it.

prestonj662's review against another edition

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3.0

I did not know beforehand what this book was going to be about. I had really enjoyed Birdsong which I read many years ago and I understood from the cover that this was to be something different. However, I struggled with it - it just felt so depressing to read! I wonder whether if the story had been real and had taken place in the current day there would be different outcomes...

colorfulleo92's review against another edition

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2.0

Ikeas intrigued by the premise but wasn't able to get invested in the audiobook. Didn't find the story or characters very engaging at all

eml28's review against another edition

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5.0

I loved this book. Totally not what I expected from Faulks (I've only ever read Birdsong) or from the blurb but my god so much better.

I love the whole premise of the 'unreliable narrator' in literature. I thought I'd sussed oit what had happened between Engleby and Jennifer though, UNTIL that very last diary entry. Now going to spend all night googling and reading reviews to see what people think actually happened. LOVED IT.