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booksamongstfriends's reviews
750 reviews
The Dinner by Herman Koch
1.0
There’s not much for me to say about this book.
I didn’t like it. I didn’t enjoy reading it. I think it tried so hard to be good and seem interesting, but the story kind of just drags on. You could skip to 50% of this book and still be sitting at the dinner table with nobody saying anything. The incident that occurred is supposed to be shocking, but everything after that wasn’t.
This book is aimed to draw focus around the lengths parents will go to and the moral dilemmas they face when it comes to protecting their children. But I think they could’ve introduced the incident a lot earlier and had more discussion about the fallout and everything that came after these revelations. It felt like we spent so much time trying to build up what was supposed to be suspense at this dinner table that you ultimately kind of just lose interest.
I didn’t like it. I didn’t enjoy reading it. I think it tried so hard to be good and seem interesting, but the story kind of just drags on. You could skip to 50% of this book and still be sitting at the dinner table with nobody saying anything. The incident that occurred is supposed to be shocking, but everything after that wasn’t.
This book is aimed to draw focus around the lengths parents will go to and the moral dilemmas they face when it comes to protecting their children. But I think they could’ve introduced the incident a lot earlier and had more discussion about the fallout and everything that came after these revelations. It felt like we spent so much time trying to build up what was supposed to be suspense at this dinner table that you ultimately kind of just lose interest.
The Kill List by Nadine Matheson
5.0
When I first came across The Jigsaw Man, I had no idea what I was in for—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The Binding Room didn’t disappoint, and The Kill List delivered in every way! Nadine Matheson has a way of capturing the reality of her characters so vividly. Every character’s voice carries purpose, without overshadowing others or detracting from the overall story.
I love how Matheson drops you right where the last book left off. This is a series where I highly recommend reading the first two books before diving into this one. Though Matheson transports you seamlessly into these characters' lives and cases, and it feels so real, like you’re working alongside them.
This book picks up from where the last one ended, focusing on the alleged crimes of DI Henley’s old boss, Rhimes. If you’ve read the first two books, like me, you’ve been waiting to uncover whether Rhimes is dirty or not. As the pieces come together, everything unravels, revealing Rhimes’ hidden history and controversial involvement in the case, while also showing how Henley’s career was shaped by this man.
Every time I read one of Matheson’s books, it feels like I’m watching the story play out on my TV—her writing is casually that immersive. I also appreciate how she captures the balance between work life and personal life, showing the toll it takes on Henley and her partner Ramouter, not just as detectives but as spouses and parents. It’s easy to get caught up in the cat-and-mouse chase to find the killer, but Matheson reminds us of the real danger these characters bring home to their families.
This book felt more raw and emotional than the others, as Henley’s connection to the case is deeply personal. The crimes span both past and present, and Henley’s team is tasked with uncovering the truth about their now-dead boss and his biggest cases. Henley is forced to confront the possibility that Rhimes may have knowingly put the wrong man in jail. Meeting the killer only complicates things further, leading to a whirlwind of discoveries that will either clear Rhimes’ name or confirm his guilt.
What I loved most is how Matheson gives us glimpses into the killer’s mind, making us feel as though we know more than the detectives—only to flip the script and leave us in the dark. You think you have it figured out, but you really don’t! Once again, Matheson does an amazing job keeping readers hooked right up until the very end.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series! All I can say is Henley and Rob better be done by then lol.
I love how Matheson drops you right where the last book left off. This is a series where I highly recommend reading the first two books before diving into this one. Though Matheson transports you seamlessly into these characters' lives and cases, and it feels so real, like you’re working alongside them.
This book picks up from where the last one ended, focusing on the alleged crimes of DI Henley’s old boss, Rhimes. If you’ve read the first two books, like me, you’ve been waiting to uncover whether Rhimes is dirty or not. As the pieces come together, everything unravels, revealing Rhimes’ hidden history and controversial involvement in the case, while also showing how Henley’s career was shaped by this man.
Every time I read one of Matheson’s books, it feels like I’m watching the story play out on my TV—her writing is casually that immersive. I also appreciate how she captures the balance between work life and personal life, showing the toll it takes on Henley and her partner Ramouter, not just as detectives but as spouses and parents. It’s easy to get caught up in the cat-and-mouse chase to find the killer, but Matheson reminds us of the real danger these characters bring home to their families.
This book felt more raw and emotional than the others, as Henley’s connection to the case is deeply personal. The crimes span both past and present, and Henley’s team is tasked with uncovering the truth about their now-dead boss and his biggest cases. Henley is forced to confront the possibility that Rhimes may have knowingly put the wrong man in jail. Meeting the killer only complicates things further, leading to a whirlwind of discoveries that will either clear Rhimes’ name or confirm his guilt.
What I loved most is how Matheson gives us glimpses into the killer’s mind, making us feel as though we know more than the detectives—only to flip the script and leave us in the dark. You think you have it figured out, but you really don’t! Once again, Matheson does an amazing job keeping readers hooked right up until the very end.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series! All I can say is Henley and Rob better be done by then lol.
The Night House: A novel by Jo Nesbø
3.0
I’ve never been a fan of the “it was in my head” trope, and The Night House didn’t completely pull it off for me.
BOOK THOUGHTS
BOOK THOUGHTS
Colored Television by Danzy Senna
4.0
3.5 rounded up. I’ll start by saying, this book will not be for everyone. For the first time in a while, I picked up a book labeled as “darkly comedic,” and it truly delivered. Satire is notoriously tricky to pull off, as humor varies so widely, and the choice to approach certain topics satirically may not go over well. This book delves into identity, specifically biracial identity, and the complex dynamics of creation, assimilation, and exploitation in the entertainment field. It’s set against the Hollywood backdrop, exploring not just the creative process itself, but the sacrifices and compromises required to create something deemed “entertaining”—and the difficult question of who the intended audience truly is.
The story centers on Jane, an author who’s been struggling for years and finally believes she has something meaningful to share. Alongside her creative pursuits, she grapples with balancing motherhood, partnership, and friendship. By no means is Jane likable—and that’s the point. None of the characters are particularly sympathetic; each has flaws that turn you off. The discomfort is intentional, forcing readers to confront and question their perceptions.
This was a biting commentary on racial identity, questioning an American Dream born in white proximity, and the complicity of some BIPOC individuals in upholding systems of whiteness. It examines the exploitative dynamics of wealth, the white gaze, and the compromises people make to “succeed.” The satire feels bold and intentional, unafraid to make readers uncomfortable. At times, I laughed out loud at the sharp, abrasive humor—moments that feel both shocking and truthful.
Admittedly, the pacing was an issue for me at first. The beginning felt slow, almost like yet another family backstory, but as the narrative progressed, the satirical moments and insights picked up, keeping me engaged. While I initially leaned toward a 3-star rating, the intentionality and humor pushed me to 3.5 stars.
I’ve seen reviews from people disappointed by the pacing or expecting a story that would let them step into someone else’s racial experience. Let me be clear: this is not that book. If you’re looking to learn about other races or identities, pick up nonfiction. Colored Television is 100% satirical fiction, with threads of reality woven in to amplify its message.
This book challenges perceptions, stirs controversy, and confronts its audience. If you’re open to that discomfort, it’s absolutely worth reading—and no surprise that it’s a book club pick. I’ve seen it compared to Yellowface, which makes me even more excited to read that one soon!
The story centers on Jane, an author who’s been struggling for years and finally believes she has something meaningful to share. Alongside her creative pursuits, she grapples with balancing motherhood, partnership, and friendship. By no means is Jane likable—and that’s the point. None of the characters are particularly sympathetic; each has flaws that turn you off. The discomfort is intentional, forcing readers to confront and question their perceptions.
This was a biting commentary on racial identity, questioning an American Dream born in white proximity, and the complicity of some BIPOC individuals in upholding systems of whiteness. It examines the exploitative dynamics of wealth, the white gaze, and the compromises people make to “succeed.” The satire feels bold and intentional, unafraid to make readers uncomfortable. At times, I laughed out loud at the sharp, abrasive humor—moments that feel both shocking and truthful.
Admittedly, the pacing was an issue for me at first. The beginning felt slow, almost like yet another family backstory, but as the narrative progressed, the satirical moments and insights picked up, keeping me engaged. While I initially leaned toward a 3-star rating, the intentionality and humor pushed me to 3.5 stars.
I’ve seen reviews from people disappointed by the pacing or expecting a story that would let them step into someone else’s racial experience. Let me be clear: this is not that book. If you’re looking to learn about other races or identities, pick up nonfiction. Colored Television is 100% satirical fiction, with threads of reality woven in to amplify its message.
This book challenges perceptions, stirs controversy, and confronts its audience. If you’re open to that discomfort, it’s absolutely worth reading—and no surprise that it’s a book club pick. I’ve seen it compared to Yellowface, which makes me even more excited to read that one soon!
Homeseeking by Karissa Chen
4.0
4.5/5 A vast, pure, and tender epic.
When I first read the description for this book, I was immediately intrigued and requested it on NetGalley. Then I saw the cover, and my anticipation grew even more. Now, after finishing it, I’m genuinely excited that I loved the story as much as I did. It reminded me of how I felt after finishing Cinema Love by Jiaming Tang—so layered and rich that you constantly walk away with something to hold onto.
While I don’t typically gravitate toward character-driven stories, Homeseeking struck the perfect balance between historical elements, romance, and a broader look at family and relationships. I think what many will appreciate about this book is how beautifully it’s written and how immersive each layer of storytelling feels. Especially giving credit to keeping a clear distinction between past and present being told in different sequence.
At its heart, this is a love story—one of second chances, sacrifice, longing, and resilience. But on the historical side, it also opens doors to learning about the varied aspects Chinese culture and history, blending fiction with lived experiences in a way that feels deeply authentic. I’m still in awe that this is a debut novel! The author did an incredible job with the historical research and character development, capturing Haiwan and Suchi’s history and the invisible thread connecting them across a lifetime.
What I really appreciated was how the novel gives readers so many stories to look forward to—so many threads you want to see resolved—while subtly disguising the fact that there isn’t a traditional plot. Instead, it’s an exploration of two people whose lives have been shaped by the world around them, by the magnetism of childhood love in a dangerous time. Beyond Haiwan and Suchi, we also get the stories of their friends, families, and children, further enriching the narrative.
I especially loved how both Haiwan and Suchi experienced life, love, and self-discovery outside of each other, each taking vastly different paths. Haiwan clings to the past, not just in his love for Suchi, but in the choices he made that affected his family. His journey toward reconciling with his loved ones is deeply moving. Meanwhile, Suchi has spent her life committed to duty, leading her to marry someone she knew wasn’t right for her, forcing herself to shrink into a version of herself that wasn’t truly her own. Watching her step into her identity, particularly as her values shift over time—especially in relation to her sister and the exploration of her sister’s sexuality—was incredibly powerful.
Reading this felt like listening to an elder recount their life story, which is why I was so captivated—even though the book was long as all get out. Maybe not in page count, but in weight. This is a story that lingers. You feel the pain of every choice made, the longing to be seen, the desire to hold onto something that feels fleeting yet eternal.
Having the audiobook truly made the experience twice as engaging. The narrator did an incredible job capturing both the intimate, heavy moments and the ones that felt sharp and direct. I know many readers will fall in love with this story and be inspired by the deep respect, admiration, and passion between Haiwan and Suchi—love that echoes through their lives and decisions.
And honestly? This would make a stunning film. I kept thinking about how electric it would feel on screen. One of my favorite book-to-film adaptations is Atonement, and Homeseeking definitely reminded me of it—the way external forces work against two people, yet they always find a way back to each other.
Thanks to NetGalley & G.P. Putnam’s Sons for this e-galley.
When I first read the description for this book, I was immediately intrigued and requested it on NetGalley. Then I saw the cover, and my anticipation grew even more. Now, after finishing it, I’m genuinely excited that I loved the story as much as I did. It reminded me of how I felt after finishing Cinema Love by Jiaming Tang—so layered and rich that you constantly walk away with something to hold onto.
While I don’t typically gravitate toward character-driven stories, Homeseeking struck the perfect balance between historical elements, romance, and a broader look at family and relationships. I think what many will appreciate about this book is how beautifully it’s written and how immersive each layer of storytelling feels. Especially giving credit to keeping a clear distinction between past and present being told in different sequence.
At its heart, this is a love story—one of second chances, sacrifice, longing, and resilience. But on the historical side, it also opens doors to learning about the varied aspects Chinese culture and history, blending fiction with lived experiences in a way that feels deeply authentic. I’m still in awe that this is a debut novel! The author did an incredible job with the historical research and character development, capturing Haiwan and Suchi’s history and the invisible thread connecting them across a lifetime.
What I really appreciated was how the novel gives readers so many stories to look forward to—so many threads you want to see resolved—while subtly disguising the fact that there isn’t a traditional plot. Instead, it’s an exploration of two people whose lives have been shaped by the world around them, by the magnetism of childhood love in a dangerous time. Beyond Haiwan and Suchi, we also get the stories of their friends, families, and children, further enriching the narrative.
I especially loved how both Haiwan and Suchi experienced life, love, and self-discovery outside of each other, each taking vastly different paths. Haiwan clings to the past, not just in his love for Suchi, but in the choices he made that affected his family. His journey toward reconciling with his loved ones is deeply moving. Meanwhile, Suchi has spent her life committed to duty, leading her to marry someone she knew wasn’t right for her, forcing herself to shrink into a version of herself that wasn’t truly her own. Watching her step into her identity, particularly as her values shift over time—especially in relation to her sister and the exploration of her sister’s sexuality—was incredibly powerful.
Reading this felt like listening to an elder recount their life story, which is why I was so captivated—even though the book was long as all get out. Maybe not in page count, but in weight. This is a story that lingers. You feel the pain of every choice made, the longing to be seen, the desire to hold onto something that feels fleeting yet eternal.
Having the audiobook truly made the experience twice as engaging. The narrator did an incredible job capturing both the intimate, heavy moments and the ones that felt sharp and direct. I know many readers will fall in love with this story and be inspired by the deep respect, admiration, and passion between Haiwan and Suchi—love that echoes through their lives and decisions.
And honestly? This would make a stunning film. I kept thinking about how electric it would feel on screen. One of my favorite book-to-film adaptations is Atonement, and Homeseeking definitely reminded me of it—the way external forces work against two people, yet they always find a way back to each other.
Thanks to NetGalley & G.P. Putnam’s Sons for this e-galley.