A review by missdaisyanna
Exciting Times by Naoise Dolan

reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I understand where the author was going with this book, the pull of the familiar and the devil you know, opting for something that wouldn't hurt you or make you too happy over something that might give you soaring highs and crushing lows. I, unfortunately, related to a lot of the feelings Ava had about Julian, wanting to be appreciated by someone who didn't appreciate anyone, and feeling special when they did. But the fatal flaw in this book was simple - I can't think of a single person who would actually like Julian. if he had been made just a bit more likeable, a little more of a mixed bag, even had just one or two redeeming qualities, then this would have worked. As it is, I just feel that Ava made the wrong choice, and nobody could argue otherwise.
I also feel like the mention of r*pe was unnecessary as it wasn't ever brought up again or developed on.
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