A review by kjm19
The Rachel Incident by Caroline O'Donoghue

emotional funny lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This is a compelling book. Contemporary Irish literature seems to be unstoppable in my view!

The characters are interesting, quirky, and flawed. The way Caroline describes them is evocative and playful. She brings a level of nostalgia to their world - even though I cannot relate - it feels like I was there. The relationships are deep and convincing, every twist and turn in their lives is surprising yet believable at the same time. The flow of the narrative entwining the past with the present isn’t distracting, you are just totally immersed with her wordplay and descriptions. 

The plot is all things political and societal, yet  the same time totally personal. The effortless weaving of the wider context of their world with their personal lives paints such a vivid and convincing depiction of their young lives and the good and bad decisions that they make in their specific circumstances. The ending is also satisfying. Everything works!

It is clever and enchanting. I look forward to reading more of her work. 
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