A review by znvisser
The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox by Maggie O'Farrell

emotional mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

2.75

Hmmm, this was my second O'Farrell and once again it failed to really resonate with me, even though there were some things about it I actually appreciated: the novel structure, Esme's story and piecing together Kitty's memories. What especially didn't help his time, is that there were two (petty) things that I particularly disliked: 1) the dog and 2) the brother.
1) Why include a dog if A) you don't even name them and B) you leave them behind all the time, especially when you're taking a trip as fun as the beach?? And 2) The very least you can do when you (repeatedly)(want to) sleep with your step sibling, is not. calling. them. your. brother/sister. all the time.
 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings