doesemilyread's reviews
163 reviews

East of Eden by John Steinbeck

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5.0

this might be one of my favourite books of all time (and I don't add books to this list lightly)

Arguably THE great American novel.

this is a multigenerational retelling of Adam & Eve and Cain & Abel. A novel that is ultimately about good vs evil, and the importance of love. it was very allegorical at time (of course) but it dded to the story and provided much food for thought.

Steinbeck has a way of writing that make it feel like its written just for you. its accessible, but SO profound and beautiful.

East of Eden has introduced me to some of my favourite literary characters ever. Each felt like a real person, with true emotion and feelings. I loved every character for different reasons (except for Cathy, who I loved to hate!). After I finished this book I had to sit for a while to just process what I had just experienced. I didn't want it to end, after reading 6oo pages, I could I have easily read 6oo more!

anyway I'm done gushing about this book, but If I have anymore thoughts or feelings I might pop them in here.
The Vegetarian by Han Kang

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2.0

Odd, and not really in a good way.
Perfume by Patrick Süskind

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5.0

This novel is truly a work of art, and unlike anything I’ve read before. Breathtakingly original and wonderfully written.

Perfume is not fast paced. It’s a subtle novel but still manages to keep you enthralled for almost 300 pages! I loved to hate the main character, Grenouille. His perspective was so fascinating and created such a thought provoking story.
The Magician's Nephew by C.S. Lewis

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3.0

Very allegorical, but not in an unpleasant way.
Exciting Times by Naoise Dolan

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2.0

unlikeable characters, hardly any plot and confusing prose
First Person Singular: Stories by Haruki Murakami

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4.0

great!
my favourite stories were:
- on a stone pillow
- with the beatles
- confessions of a shinagawa monkey

(first person singular was also good but not amazing)
Circe by Madeline Miller

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4.0

love u Madeline Miller, but this wasn’t a patch on The song Of Achilles
Pew by Catherine Lacey

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4.0

a brief novel, but with incredible prose and an overwhelming sense of ambiguity. Definitely a must read.
Time's Convert by Deborah Harkness

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3.0

a nice conclusion to the all souls trilogy. Enjoyed but didn’t love
The Book of Life by Deborah Harkness

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4.0

loved this final book. a great end to the trilogy.
is it the best book ever written ? not at all, but it’s entertaining and I enjoyed it so that’s all that matters. Kind of like twilight for people with more than 3 brain cells.