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cath7472's review against another edition
5.0
Loved this book. It was a short and very satisfying tale. I will definitely read more of his work.
farkle's review against another edition
3.0
This is a lovely story, but I couldn't help wishing that the author or editor had made different choices in the way that it was told. It felt to me that certain pieces were missing, or maybe just some characters were superfluous. The story would have been much richer if those characters had not been introduced or if their relationships had been fleshed out more. Still worth the read though.
inesdef's review against another edition
4.0
Not my favorite Coe’s novel but his writing is so excellent I could never give him less than 4 ⭐️!
anatomydetective's review against another edition
2.0
The whole framing device of this book made it tedious and the twist at the end made it feel so pointless I wanted to toss the book out the window. The quality of the writing itself was pretty good.
margot95's review against another edition
4.0
The story of a tragic family history, charmingly told by Jonathan Coe. It’s deceptively simple at times, and the ending packs quite a punch, though Coe never veers into melodrama. Would recommend to people who like meandering stories about mothers and daughters.
sophie8mae's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
3.0
rdebner's review against another edition
3.0
Creative structure of the book, which really keeps the reader guessing about what is going on. Overall, not Coe's finest work, but still an enjoyable read.
strb's review against another edition
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
empheliath's review against another edition
3.0
One of the reviews on the back of this book calls it "a psychological mystery" and describes it as "evoking...suspense and dread". So for starters -- I got none of that from this book. An interesting drama, yes. Telling the story of generations of neglect and abuse as seen from an outside family member who truly loves all those involved, and her attempts to save them from themselves over the years. Well enough told, but not my typical kind of book, and not something I find myself wanting to rave about.