emilyrennert's reviews
7 reviews

Foe by Iain Reid

mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

I like that the book centered domestic conflict, and the Outermore storyline was more of an event that instigated the characters' reflection of their home life, marriage, and outlook on life. The pace was steady and the climax of events was slow, but the story and conflict was engaging enough that I did not get bored or impatient. And I did not see the plot twist coming so that was very exciting and enjoyable. I like that the ending left me with questions.

The Wives by Tarryn Fisher

mysterious tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

2.75

There were lots of twists and turns, but the plot got a little bit lost sometimes. The ending wasn't particularly satisfying. Personally I don't like that the author went for the "insane woman" plot line. I love a flawed and unlikeable main character, but when the plot went from "taking revenge against an abusive partner" to "actually she's just insane and making things up" I got a bit of a bad taste in my mouth.

---

Content Warnings

Moderate: Physical abuse, Forced institutionalization, Emotional abuse, Violence, Medical trauma, Miscarriage, Domestic abuse, Schizophrenia/Psychosis , Abortion, Pregnancy, Gaslighting, Toxic relationship, Infertility, and Mental illness

Eileen by Ottessa Moshfegh
Did not finish book. Stopped at 30%.

It was too slow paced for me. I would try reading it again in the future

Our Wives Under The Sea by Julia Armfield

mysterious sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

dark emotional tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Big Swiss by Jen Beagin

challenging funny tense medium-paced

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

5.0

This book is everything I want Otessah Moshfegh books to be - unhinged, unlikeable female characters but without leaving you with that "dirty" feeling after you're done reading.

A House with Good Bones by T. Kingfisher

adventurous funny tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0