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4.07 AVERAGE
4.07 AVERAGE
emotional
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
emotional
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
OVERALL RATING: 9.5/10 -> 4.75 stars on StoryGraph.
Characters: 10
First of all, I feel represented in this book as someone who also struggles to connect with the human species. I really appreciate how deep the lore behind Albert's journey running, which makes me feel even more invested in supporting his path. I also love how most of the characters are having both good and bad sides portrayed (the exception being Albert’s dad), which makes them all feel more real and relatable.
Setting/Theme: 10
The central theme of belonging and self-discovery is explored with great nuance. I also admire how the author seamlessly weaves in a critique of the unfair prejudices faced by marginalized groups that still sadly persist in our nowadays society.
Writing Style: 10
Cain's writing is mostly to the point, yet it still manages to evoke strong emotions in me. I also love how he occasionally shifts to Nicole’s point of view in certain chapters, which adds more flavors to the story.
Plot: 9
Overall, the story is thoroughly well-crafted, with every moment propelling the narrative forward. I love how the flashbacks were strategically integrated to complement the step he makes in his transformation journey. I also love how his personal growth is also positively impacting the lives of the friends he meets along the way as well. My only minor criticism is that I wished the reunion had been a bit more explosive, but even so, the ending is still deeply satisfying.
Logic: 8
It’s hard to believe that Albert couldn’t find George online , especially considering George is a renowned drag queen who is not really hiding his out-of-drag persona . Another thing that bothered me was the initial reason Jamie’s mother disapproved of Nicole , which makes little sense to me.
Intrigue/Enjoyment: 10
The book tugs at my heartstrings and truly fulfills its role as a heartwarming and inspirational gay story.
It took forever for me to get through this book. I was intrigued by the synopsis, but the execution just wasn’t there. I think the introduction of another character’s POV slowed down the book, and it felt pointless.
I think the story would’ve been better if that part of the book was eliminated & also if the book was shorter.
I think the story would’ve been better if that part of the book was eliminated & also if the book was shorter.
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Homophobia, Outing
Moderate: Racism, Police brutality
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
After spending decades as a postman for the Royal Mail, Albert receives a letter notifying him of his forced retirement at age sixty-five. His life is quiet, living alone with his cat. Though private in nature, Albert had a connection to the world when he traveled the streets delivering mail. With that gone, no hobbies, no friends or family to speak of, and the regret of a lost love, his existence is utterly lonely. Rather than wallow in this state, Albert decides to begin living his honest self, find happiness, and look for the man he once loved and has never forgotten. Along the way he makes new friends and discovers it is never too late.
THE SECRET LIFE OF ALBERT ENTWISTLE was altogether an emotional read that had me in tears. Albert was a compelling and charming character. I felt so much for him as I watched his journey. The secondary characters were equally fabulous. Poignant and heartwarming, Albert’s story explored what it means to be accepted, both by society and by yourself. I loved the community aspect of this queer love story. The author included interviews with gay men about their experiences growing up in the UK which highlights the importance of sharing queer stories.
I highly recommend THE SECRET LIFE OF ALBERT ENTWISTLE. I look forward to reading more books by Matt Cain.
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
3.75 stars. A bit saccharine at times but overall thoroughly enjoyed it.