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A review by librarymouse
The Gulf: A Novel by Rachel Cochran
dark
emotional
mysterious
medium-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 was a really engaging read, but after reading the majority of the book in a single day, most of my thoughts on it summarize down into "what the fuck?"
It's honestly a really good read, looking at the interconnectedness of families in small towns and the insidious nature of cults and religions that prey on the vulnerable in order to grow their flock. Lou is an empathetic, if unreliable narrator - though she's also unreliable to herself, not hiding the truth on purpose. There's such interesting growth and change for all the characters.
Also, surprisingly, very queer.
the blood transfusion thing made me hate Kate. She may have been seeking redemption, but she, with the help of Peg, killed her daughter.
Joanna, becoming more sympathetic as a character throughout the novel, was such an interesting arc, even after the infidelity. The fact that they can remain friends is narratively interesting
It's honestly a really good read, looking at the interconnectedness of families in small towns and the insidious nature of cults and religions that prey on the vulnerable in order to grow their flock. Lou is an empathetic, if unreliable narrator - though she's also unreliable to herself, not hiding the truth on purpose. There's such interesting growth and change for all the characters.
Also, surprisingly, very queer.
Joanna, becoming more sympathetic as a character throughout the novel, was such an interesting arc, even after the infidelity. The fact that they can remain friends is narratively interesting
Content Warnings
Graphic: Chronic illness, Medical content, Domestic abuse, Alcohol, Car accident, Child abuse, Child death, Grief, Drug use, Emotional abuse, Misogyny, Death, Death of parent, Gaslighting, Hate crime, Injury/Injury detail, Racism, Sexual content, Religious bigotry, Homophobia, Infidelity, Mental illness, and Blood
Moderate: Suicidal thoughts
Minor: Slavery and Gun violence