Reviews

The Doll Maker by Richard Montanari

jjbankhead's review against another edition

dark mysterious tense medium-paced

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

4.0

holmstead's review against another edition

4.0

I have just become a fangirl of Montanari's novels. This one had me cringing, gasping, and speaking out loud to no one in particular. Montanari has just taken a simple, childhood toy and turned it into something sinister and uncanny. I don't really seek out books that have this particular subject behind it, but something about it made me become intrigued. This author does a superb job at getting into the mind and mannerisms of these crazy, damaged characters. The protagonists -- Jessica and Kevin - are also written extremely well and with good history into their relationship as partners with the local police department. I did not know AT ALL that these characters are from a series by this author. It seems they stand alone quite well.

Now, as much as I enjoyed this sucker, there are some unanswered questions that I am left to ponder. That is my reason for that missing star from my rating. I don't want to be one of those fans who say "what happened? make another one, I need closure, man!" But you never know, Montanari may just do that. (winkwink)

rachael_reading's review against another edition

5.0

It was one of the best murder mysteries/ psych thrillers I have listened to! It was a different layout too, which was interesting. I read the audiobook and The narrator did a GREAT job at all of the characters, especially the french etiquette of Annabelle and Mr Marseilles. Usually you are trying to figure out who the killers are, but instead you find out who right at the beginning, and their story slowly unfurls. You follow along with the police as different tips pop up. It was gripping. I recommend it for anyone who liked Gone Girl, The Girl on the Train, and Where they found her.

lizzzeb's review against another edition

dark mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.0

eamwilliams504's review against another edition

4.0

This is the first book I have read by this author. I thought it was a well paced thriller with a creative plot.
I will read more by this author featuring this pair of detectives.

dvstnn's review against another edition

3.0

3.75

chava_in_oz's review against another edition

5.0

I loved this book. I'd never heard of the author, but will now read more of his work

scrollsofdragons's review against another edition

2.0

I would have voted three stars but Richard Montanari's sexism drew me off. He's not sexist? Tell me how not. He believes that every married woman should take their husband's name and if not, then it's not right. He establishes this through an character (from the doll shop) and by having every female carrying their husbands name. Including the main character.

The novel? Very good. Why was Annabelle naive and her brother not? Probably sexist again.

And why did he go by Mr. Marseille? That was never really addressed when it should be.

But everything else, was great. Engaging, entertaining, made me turn the page.

Drabacks? Wasn't that exciting to give it that four star rating.

So a less sexist author and made more exciting, definitely a four star. Sadly, I can only give it two.

melnee's review against another edition

5.0

If you have watched (and enjoyed) the anime Monster, please read this book

criminally_yours's review against another edition

dark fast-paced

2.5