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Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty
3.0

Starting off, it was a much different book then I thought I was picking up, but lets get into it!

Apples Never Fall, the latest novel by renowned author Liane Moriarty, is an exploration of family dynamics and the complexities that lie beneath seemingly ordinary lives. While the book presents an intriguing premise and offers glimpses of the author's storytelling prowess, it falls short of fully delivering on its potential.

The story revolves around the Delaney family, whose seemingly idyllic existence is shattered when Joy Delaney mysteriously disappears. As her family tries to unravel the truth behind her disappearance, dark secrets, hidden resentments, and strained relationships come to the fore.

Moriarty, has a knack for creating multi-layered characters, and Apples Never Fall is no exception. Each member of the Delaney family is crafted with care, with their unique quirks and flaws adding depth to the narrative. From the steadfast Stan to the enigmatic Joy, their personalities are vividly depicted, drawing readers into their world.

The novel's greatest strength lies in its exploration of familial bonds and the complexities of marriage. The strained relationships and buried secrets that emerge throughout the story are relatable and offer moments of genuine emotional resonance. The author delves into the intricacies of human connections, highlighting the ways in which misunderstandings and unspoken truths can strain even the closest of relationships.

However, despite these compelling elements, the book suffers from pacing issues and an occasionally meandering plot. The narrative takes its time to unfold, with extensive flashbacks and detours that may test the patience of some readers. The story's momentum is occasionally stalled, making it difficult to maintain a consistent level of engagement throughout.

Additionally, while the characters are well-developed, some of their actions and motivations feel contrived or predictable. Certain plot twists lack the impact they should have had, and resolutions to certain conflicts come across as convenient rather than earned. These shortcomings prevent the story from fully resonating on an emotional level, leaving some aspects feeling disappointingly shallow.

On a positive note, Moriarty' writing style remains engaging and accessible. The prose flows smoothly, and the author's ability to create authentic dialogue adds authenticity to the interactions between characters. The book's themes of love, forgiveness, and the complexities of family dynamics are explored with sensitivity and thoughtfulness.

Apples Never Fall is a novel that holds promise, with its well-drawn characters and exploration of family dynamics. However, it falls short of reaching its full potential due to pacing issues and occasionally predictable plot developments. While it may not be the author's strongest work, fans of their previous novels may still find moments of enjoyment and insight within these pages.

In conclusion, Apples Never Fall presents a mixed reading experience, with glimpses of brilliance tempered by pacing issues and predictable plot elements. It serves as a reminder that even talented authors can produce works that don't quite match their best efforts. Nonetheless, it offers enough moments of emotional resonance and compelling characters to engage readers seeking a contemporary exploration of family and its complexities.