A review by katiemack
The Rachel Incident by Caroline O'Donoghue

emotional funny reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

I was initially hesitant to request this, given the marketing blurb about Rachel developing a crush on her college professor, but I'm glad I did because this infatuation is such a small aspect of the book. This has some of the same self-destructive themes as Bridget Jones' Diary or Sally Rooney's books or other works about college students who have trouble taking care of themselves. (Curse my postpartum brain for not being able to think of them.) The result is a surprisingly funny reflection on the recession, the concept of adulthood and career goals, and what it means to be in a healthy relationship. It also feels like a slow descent into chaos that I couldn't stop reading; I spent some moments cringing, and the husband reveal made me narrow my eyes a bit. It's a fun read, though, and it'll go quickly. 
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