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3.23 AVERAGE
3.23 AVERAGE
I enjoyed this (who doesn't love a cult novel!?) but it was a rather uneven read. Will was probably the least interesting character when compared to the other two (Phoebe and John Leal), but his perspective was the most fleshed out, and is what anchors the novel. Phoebe's elusiveness made her feel like a manic pixie dream girl, which may have been intentional, but made for an unsatisfying read.
While the writing was solid, I couldn't connect or empathize with any of the characters enough to care about the sketchy plot. I think Kwon started probing at some interesting questions about belief, obsession, and desperation but only skimmed the surface without churning up any conclusions.
It wasn’t poorly written but I DID hate it. Pros: it was short. Cons: this the most MFA book to be written. If you like prentention, have at it! If that’s not your vibe, pass.
Dislikable characters, ridiculous prose. Promises of an interesting plot that doesn’t happen until the last 30 pages. Major disappointment.
What an excellent debut!
This thought provoking novel follows one characters decent into a cult. Some themes that are evident include... seeking acceptance, manipulation, survival and faith (or loss of).
Highly recommended
This thought provoking novel follows one characters decent into a cult. Some themes that are evident include... seeking acceptance, manipulation, survival and faith (or loss of).
Highly recommended
Will yearns to fill the god-shaped hole of renounced religion. Phoebe harbors extreme guilt and grief over her mother’s death. Both are desperate to fill these voids, but in drastically different ways.
Kwon’s alternating narrative is sharp and smart. I appreciate that the religious extremist, though integral to the story, doesn’t get much face time. Vagueness, when executed well, leaves you to draw your own conclusions. Excellent debut!
Kwon’s alternating narrative is sharp and smart. I appreciate that the religious extremist, though integral to the story, doesn’t get much face time. Vagueness, when executed well, leaves you to draw your own conclusions. Excellent debut!
all the hype for this really ended up disappointing me. I found it incredibly boring-- guess i'm in the minority opinion for this one. ah well.
dark
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
An interesting college coming of age story navigating grief and power and faith. There were moments of violence that were difficult to get through, but I also finished the book in one day so I think this was balanced well, or at least in a way that felt like the characters were real.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Rape, Self harm, Sexual assault, Toxic relationship, Violence, Police brutality, Car accident, Death of parent
Buried under the weight of its pretentiousness was the suggestion of an interesting plot.