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A review by carlaabra
Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
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
4.25
Beautiful writing. The first 100 pages are exquisite. After that the pacing falters a little. I got bogged down in the chapters with Saffy as an adult. The plot with the baby was incredible and the multiple POVs was well done.
Ansel was a much more sympathetic figure than I had imagined. I was startled by this, which I think is the intent. I never did understand why Jenny stayed with him, though, since it seemed from the beginning that she knew what he was. This is juxtaposed by Lavender, now broken as an adult, whose actions I didn’t agree with but I did understand.
This is not a feel-good read. It is dark and depressing. There is no light at the end of the tunnel. But I think it’s a raw and genuine story, which is what I fundamentally ask for in a book. You will experience anger, revulsion, shock, and sorrow while reading. That’s a testament to the talented writing.
Ansel was a much more sympathetic figure than I had imagined. I was startled by this, which I think is the intent. I never did understand why Jenny stayed with him, though, since it seemed from the beginning that she knew what he was. This is juxtaposed by Lavender, now broken as an adult, whose actions I didn’t agree with but I did understand.
This is not a feel-good read. It is dark and depressing. There is no light at the end of the tunnel. But I think it’s a raw and genuine story, which is what I fundamentally ask for in a book. You will experience anger, revulsion, shock, and sorrow while reading. That’s a testament to the talented writing.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Murder
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Alcoholism, and Grief
Minor: Animal cruelty
After the very first passages with Lavender (which are an excruciating read), there is no more sexual assault. Thankfully.
Ansel does kill animals as a child/teenager but it is not graphic.