merinshmerin 's review for:

Gold by Chris Cleave

4.0

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I enjoyed this book. I haven't read Little Bee or Incendiary so I didn't have any expectations coming into Gold and I think that helped. I felt it reflected real life situations with authenticity and care. The dark spots did not feel so dark thanks to the bright, humorous spots scattered throughout the book. I felt for the characters but did not pity them. Even though I have no experience in training and competing in any high level sports, I think the book did a good job balancing that aspect of the characters lives with what was happening outside of their professional lives. It showed how interconnected an athletes life is with their sport; nearly every decision they make is based on how it will impact their training. It was an easy, interesting read that covered a difficult, uncomfortable subject.