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A review by megansmith
Ripe by Sarah Rose Etter
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
I found this book to be really fascinating. As someone that works in tech (granted, a way less extreme version than the one depicted in this book) and finds it utterly baffling, I could find some of my own experience in this book - satirized just a little. Its a bit inflated to draw shock and attention from the reader, but at its core, its all still believable and reflects the ridiculousness of tech. I could feel the same unease Cassie describes herself feeling throughout the book, and I wanted to commend Sarah Rose Etter on such detail-filled writing.
Speaking of, the writing of this book is so detailed - I read one review that called it a gut punch, which feels so accurate to her style. I loved the mix of description with storytelling, and enjoyed her writing a lot.
I dont even want to call this a complaint, just more of a warning - this book is just a straight dive into sadness. There’s not a lot of ups and downs that keep you on your toes, riding the highs or soaring through the lows to get more highs. Its kind of the point of the book but nonetheless, if you struggle with books that can feel bleak throughout, this could be a tough read. This is maybe one of the only reasons I knocked it down. Also - the main character is not a good person, and Etter doesnt shy away from that either, I think thats the point too that this character is very flawed. But if you also look for heros you can root for, dont read this book.
I did really enjoy this though, this book surprised me and I really enjoyed Etter’s writing - I was rooting for good throughout this book, which I did not get!! but i think thats the point!! Anyways, definitely recommend.
Speaking of, the writing of this book is so detailed - I read one review that called it a gut punch, which feels so accurate to her style. I loved the mix of description with storytelling, and enjoyed her writing a lot.
I dont even want to call this a complaint, just more of a warning - this book is just a straight dive into sadness. There’s not a lot of ups and downs that keep you on your toes, riding the highs or soaring through the lows to get more highs. Its kind of the point of the book but nonetheless, if you struggle with books that can feel bleak throughout, this could be a tough read. This is maybe one of the only reasons I knocked it down. Also - the main character is not a good person, and Etter doesnt shy away from that either, I think thats the point too that this character is very flawed. But if you also look for heros you can root for, dont read this book.
I did really enjoy this though, this book surprised me and I really enjoyed Etter’s writing - I was rooting for good throughout this book, which I did not get!! but i think thats the point!! Anyways, definitely recommend.