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kearstinreading's reviews
42 reviews
We Ride Upon Sticks by Quan Barry
Nostalgia is a powerful force, and I've thoroughly enjoyed the wave of nostalgia-driven shows like "Stranger Things" and the campy vibes of similar books. However, in my view, "We Ride Upon Sticks" didn't quite hit the mark when it comes to the comparisons with these beloved nostalgic shows. The unique charm and allure I expected to find were somewhat off-base.
One of the most striking features of this book is its dense prose. The writing is incredibly dense, making it a challenging read for those who aren't particularly drawn to such a style.
In summary, "We Ride Upon Sticks" didn't quite meet my expectations. It's a dense and challenging read, with characters and storytelling that failed to captivate me. While the premise held promise, the execution left something to be desired, and the nostalgia factor fell somewhat short.
adventurous
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.0
"We Ride Upon Sticks" transports readers to 1989, back to the very town where the infamous witch trials originated. In this small town, the Danvers High School Falcons field hockey team will stop at nothing to secure victory, even if it means delving into witchcraft.
I'm an avid reader, and it's a rare occurrence for me not to finish a book. Yet, in the case of "We Ride Upon Sticks," I found myself slogging through it out of sheer discipline. This novel just didn't manage to capture my interest. The characters lacked the compelling qualities that draw readers in, and the storytelling failed to grip me as I had hoped. I really wanted to like this book, but alas, it didn't quite deliver.
Nostalgia is a powerful force, and I've thoroughly enjoyed the wave of nostalgia-driven shows like "Stranger Things" and the campy vibes of similar books. However, in my view, "We Ride Upon Sticks" didn't quite hit the mark when it comes to the comparisons with these beloved nostalgic shows. The unique charm and allure I expected to find were somewhat off-base.
One of the most striking features of this book is its dense prose. The writing is incredibly dense, making it a challenging read for those who aren't particularly drawn to such a style.
In summary, "We Ride Upon Sticks" didn't quite meet my expectations. It's a dense and challenging read, with characters and storytelling that failed to captivate me. While the premise held promise, the execution left something to be desired, and the nostalgia factor fell somewhat short.
The Monarchs by Danielle Paige, Kass Morgan
This installment picks up with Vivi and Scarlett as they navigate the aftermath of a year filled with loss and upheaval. Determined to move forward and prove that they're still a force to be reckoned with, they face the daunting challenge of preserving the sisterhood they cherish. Yet, as the new school year commences, an ominous darkness begins to infiltrate their idyllic world, leaving them scrambling to make sense of the unraveling mysteries.
Overall, "The Monarchs" may not surpass its predecessor, but it remains a good read, particularly for those seeking a casual autumnal story. The themes of sisterhood and a well-executed plot make it a worthy addition to the series, and it's certainly a recommendation I'd make to a friend in search of an engaging read.
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
"The Monarchs," a sequel to "The Ravens," had big shoes to fill after my appreciation of its predecessor. While it didn't quite match the heights of the original, it remains a good read in its own right, offering a story that, while not as character-driven as the first book, still manages to captivate readers.
This installment picks up with Vivi and Scarlett as they navigate the aftermath of a year filled with loss and upheaval. Determined to move forward and prove that they're still a force to be reckoned with, they face the daunting challenge of preserving the sisterhood they cherish. Yet, as the new school year commences, an ominous darkness begins to infiltrate their idyllic world, leaving them scrambling to make sense of the unraveling mysteries.
While the first book placed significant emphasis on character development, "The Monarchs" leans more on its plot, making it a slightly surprising approach for a young adult novel. Despite this shift, the story doesn't shy away from highlighting the importance of found family and the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood. While romantic love plays a more prominent role here than in the original, it's not overdone and fits well within the narrative.
One of the highlights of "The Monarchs" is its ability to deliver unexpected twists and turns, particularly in the final chapters. The book manages to keep readers on their toes, preventing them from guessing the culprit and eliciting genuine gasps of surprise.
Overall, "The Monarchs" may not surpass its predecessor, but it remains a good read, particularly for those seeking a casual autumnal story. The themes of sisterhood and a well-executed plot make it a worthy addition to the series, and it's certainly a recommendation I'd make to a friend in search of an engaging read.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling
adventurous
dark
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Let's get one thing straight – I refuse to support the author of this series. However, I still have the books from my childhood, and I return to them for the nostalgia and to revisit a world that has left an indelible mark on millions of readers. So, let's dive into "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix," which has always held a special place in my heart.
While Goblet of Fire takes us deeper into the darker aspects of the Wizarding World, "Order of the Phoenix" represents a pivotal moment in the series. It marks the end of the trio's innocence and the beginning of a more daunting, complex journey. The loss of Cedric Diggory in the previous book was a painful blow, but in this installment, we witness the shattering of hope as Harry grapples with the tragic loss of the man who symbolized the family he had yearned for.
One of the enduring qualities of this book is its length. It's a substantial read, and it's remarkable that it manages to be so without feeling lengthy. Each subplot serves a purpose, propelling us forward and providing crucial information that will become increasingly significant as the series unfolds. As the final page approaches, there's an undeniable yearning for more, a sensation I vividly remember from my younger years, impatiently awaiting the release of the next installment.
"Order of the Phoenix" is a masterclass in storytelling. It's a book that captures the essence of growth, loss, and the looming shadows of the Wizarding World's dark forces. It serves as a turning point for both the characters and the readers, cementing its place as a cherished chapter in the Harry Potter series.
The Ravens by Danielle Paige, Kass Morgan
What sets "The Ravens" apart from many in the paranormal genre is its collegiate backdrop. Rather than the familiar high school setting, we find ourselves immersed in the intriguing world of university life. The tale revolves around Kappa Rho Nu, a sorority that appears outwardly as a haven for the best and most beautiful girls on campus. However, beneath the surface, a bewitching secret is concealed - each and every member is a witch.
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
As September rolls into October, there's a particular thrill in delving into books that embrace the spirit of "spooky season." "The Ravens" proved to be the perfect addition to this seasonal reading, offering a blend of enchantment, mystery, and dark secrets that kept me engaged from start to finish.
What sets "The Ravens" apart from many in the paranormal genre is its collegiate backdrop. Rather than the familiar high school setting, we find ourselves immersed in the intriguing world of university life. The tale revolves around Kappa Rho Nu, a sorority that appears outwardly as a haven for the best and most beautiful girls on campus. However, beneath the surface, a bewitching secret is concealed - each and every member is a witch.
The story follows two captivating characters, Vivi Devereaux and Scarlett Winter. Scarlett, an established Kappa sister with ambitions to become the sorority's president, brings experience and a sense of duty. Vivi, on the other hand, is a freshman with dreams of securing her place within Kappa. Unbeknownst to her, she possesses a powerful magic that becomes evident during the rushing process, earning her a bid to the house.
While the plot encompasses elements of romance, it is not the primary focus, which I found refreshing. Instead, "The Ravens" centers on themes of found family and the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood. The book adeptly navigates the complexities of friendships and alliances, adding depth to the story and creating a sense of connection with the characters.
One of the highlights of this read was the clever twists unveiled in the final chapters. The story took a direction I didn't anticipate, and that element of surprise heightened the overall experience for me. I relish moments when a book can keep me guessing until the very end, and "The Ravens" delivered on that front.
In summary, "The Ravens" proved to be an excellent addition to the spookier reading season, showcasing a unique blend of witchcraft, sisterhood, and mystery set against the backdrop of college life. It's a tale that successfully intertwines enchanting elements with the bonds of friendship and the allure of found family, all while keeping you eagerly flipping the pages to uncover the secrets lurking beneath the surface.
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins
The book is split into two halves, and I found myself significantly more engaged with the first. It's possible that my bias comes from appreciating how the original books were a series, but I almost wished this story had been divided into two separate books. The first could have been focused on the Hunger Games, while the second could have explored the peacekeeper aspect.
In summary, "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" answers many questions raised by "The Hunger Games" series, offering a glimpse into how a society could deteriorate to such depths. The book begins on the 10th annual Hunger Games, introducing intriguing new elements to the competition. Enter Lucy Gray, a character who steals the spotlight with her enchanting presence. The narrative skillfully navigates Lucy Gray's journey in the Games and Snow's role as her mentor, all the while revealing the cracks in the Capitol's facade. Suzanne Collins has delivered a thought-provoking addition to the series that both captivates and leaves you with a sense of curiosity about the complex world she's crafted.
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-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
Suzanne Collins took a daring leap into the past with "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes," offering readers a prequel to "The Hunger Games" series. The prospect of diving into the early life of President Snow was a daunting one; after all, we've grown to loathe him with every fiber of our beings through the original series. However, Collins' storytelling prowess is evident from the very beginning. She manages to take one of the most unlovable characters and weave a narrative that makes you, if not like him, at least understand him... somewhat.
From the outset, I was astounded by the complexity of this book. While it's indeed a prequel, I went into the novel with an established loathing for Snow. Surprisingly, that prejudice didn't taint my perception of the entire story. It's a testament to Collins' writing that she can transform this character from an almost likable protagonist in the first half of the book into the absolute worst human being in the latter part.
One of the highlights of the story is Lucy Gray, a character who left me constantly torn. I alternated between finding her endearing and feeling irked by her, particularly as the story neared its conclusion. While she initially appeared intelligent and cunning, I couldn't comprehend some of her choices, especially those related to Snow.
The book is split into two halves, and I found myself significantly more engaged with the first. It's possible that my bias comes from appreciating how the original books were a series, but I almost wished this story had been divided into two separate books. The first could have been focused on the Hunger Games, while the second could have explored the peacekeeper aspect.
One aspect that left me slightly confused was Snow's development. The narrative gradually peels back his eyes to the negative aspects of the Hunger Games and society at large, but his actions towards the end of the book caught me off guard. I wish the story had dedicated more time to thoroughly exploring Snow's transformation into the character we know from the existing series.
In summary, "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" answers many questions raised by "The Hunger Games" series, offering a glimpse into how a society could deteriorate to such depths. The book begins on the 10th annual Hunger Games, introducing intriguing new elements to the competition. Enter Lucy Gray, a character who steals the spotlight with her enchanting presence. The narrative skillfully navigates Lucy Gray's journey in the Games and Snow's role as her mentor, all the while revealing the cracks in the Capitol's facade. Suzanne Collins has delivered a thought-provoking addition to the series that both captivates and leaves you with a sense of curiosity about the complex world she's crafted.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Murder, and Violence
Moderate: Death of parent and War
The Club by Ellery Lloyd
At first glance, the concept behind the story was promising. The backdrop of Island Home, an ultra-luxurious resort exclusively frequented by the rich and famous, piqued my interest. As a fan of reality television and someone with a certain fascination for exclusive clubs like SoHo House, I was drawn to the idea of a resort so revered that people would resort to shady measures just to gain admission.
However, as the plot unfolded, it became evident that "The Club" wouldn't provide the deep dive into the world of the rich and famous that I had anticipated. The constant switching of points of view made it nearly impossible to keep up with each character's storyline, and the lack of endearing qualities in the characters left me unfazed by their fates. I found it hard to care whether they lived or died, and their slow attrition didn't stir much emotion.
As for the story itself, while brimming with characters, the true central character is Island Home. As the newest and most exclusive addition to the Home Group portfolio, it stands as the epitome of luxury and exclusivity. Home Group, a fictional counterpart to SoHo House, offers membership to only the wealthiest and most famous individuals, allowing them to escape the prying eyes of the public and indulge in whatever their hearts desire.
The narrative centers around the kickoff weekend of Island Home, where secrets and lies run rampant even before the rich and famous arrive. Throughout the book, the chapters oscillate between different characters on the island, each exploring the setting and encountering their own obstacles along the way.
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
I find myself on a lifelong quest for a thriller that can grip my interest the way Agatha Christie's "And Then There Were None" did when I first delved into it. Naturally, my hopes were set high when I picked up "The Club," but, unfortunately, it fell short of the mark.
At first glance, the concept behind the story was promising. The backdrop of Island Home, an ultra-luxurious resort exclusively frequented by the rich and famous, piqued my interest. As a fan of reality television and someone with a certain fascination for exclusive clubs like SoHo House, I was drawn to the idea of a resort so revered that people would resort to shady measures just to gain admission.
However, as the plot unfolded, it became evident that "The Club" wouldn't provide the deep dive into the world of the rich and famous that I had anticipated. The constant switching of points of view made it nearly impossible to keep up with each character's storyline, and the lack of endearing qualities in the characters left me unfazed by their fates. I found it hard to care whether they lived or died, and their slow attrition didn't stir much emotion.
In truth, I really wanted to love this book. While I did enjoy it enough to see it through to the end, I struggled through some of the convoluted details and ultimately felt that it couldn't fully satisfy my craving for a Christie-esque masterpiece.
As for the story itself, while brimming with characters, the true central character is Island Home. As the newest and most exclusive addition to the Home Group portfolio, it stands as the epitome of luxury and exclusivity. Home Group, a fictional counterpart to SoHo House, offers membership to only the wealthiest and most famous individuals, allowing them to escape the prying eyes of the public and indulge in whatever their hearts desire.
The narrative centers around the kickoff weekend of Island Home, where secrets and lies run rampant even before the rich and famous arrive. Throughout the book, the chapters oscillate between different characters on the island, each exploring the setting and encountering their own obstacles along the way.
While "The Club" offered a promising premise, it ultimately couldn't deliver the immersive thriller experience I had hoped for. It's a decent read but doesn't quite reach the heights of classic mysteries like those by Agatha Christie. My quest for the next gripping masterpiece continues.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Car accident, Adult/minor relationship, Drug use, Death, Murder, and Pregnancy
None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell
The book's compelling nature is undeniable. I was consistently in a state of suspense, constantly questioning what would happen next and eagerly moving forward to uncover the next "lie." The art of storytelling is executed with a finesse that keeps the reader engaged and invested in the unraveling mystery.
However, my enthusiasm did wane as the story approached its conclusion. While the ending did throw a few more questions into the mix, it left me yearning for a greater sense of finality. Instead, it left me with more questions, which is what prevents me from awarding this book a five-star review.
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
The title of "None of This is True" couldn't be more fitting, as the author truly takes the concept of ambiguity and obscurity to the extremes. Even now, after closing the final chapter and allowing myself time to mull over the narrative, I find myself grappling with what was the truth. The line between fact and fiction is masterfully blurred, and the author's storytelling prowess keeps readers on their toes throughout the journey.
I'd highly recommend experiencing this book in audio format, as the book brilliantly integrates clips from the podcast and Netflix series referenced throughout the text. This auditory immersion elevates the storytelling experience, allowing you to become fully engrossed in the narrative.
The book's compelling nature is undeniable. I was consistently in a state of suspense, constantly questioning what would happen next and eagerly moving forward to uncover the next "lie." The art of storytelling is executed with a finesse that keeps the reader engaged and invested in the unraveling mystery.
However, my enthusiasm did wane as the story approached its conclusion. While the ending did throw a few more questions into the mix, it left me yearning for a greater sense of finality. Instead, it left me with more questions, which is what prevents me from awarding this book a five-star review.
In summary, "None of This is True" introduces us to Alix, a popular podcaster known for spotlighting the journeys of remarkable women. Despite her own far-from-perfect life, Alix enjoys an idyllic existence with a loving husband and two beautiful children. The turning point arrives when, while celebrating her 45th birthday, she crosses paths with Josie, another woman celebrating the same milestone at the pub. What begins as a chance encounter evolves into a unique friendship, with Alix interviewing Josie for her podcast. The series is meant to chronicle Josie's pursuit to "turn her life around" and make the right choices, but the story takes a twist that leaves Alix's life dramatically altered - and not for the better.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Adult/minor relationship, Alcoholism, Pedophilia, and Murder
I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai
Despite my feelings about the ending and my idealistic wishes, I have to assign 'I Have Some Questions for You' a rating of 2.0 stars. In my view, the narrative could have reached its conclusion much more expeditiously and in a far more gripping manner.
Quick summary:
dark
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
It's rare that I can't get into a literary mystery, but 'I Have Some Questions for You' was a serious struggle from start to finish. While I did successfully trudge through this book, I can't say I was excited to read it. The motivation to turn the page was lacking, and it left me wishing for a more engaging narrative. I'm not one to give up easily, so I soldiered on, primarily fueled by the desire to uncover the truth behind the murder and whether justice would eventually prevail. Regrettably, the prose often felt meandering, and the use of second-person narration didn't quite hit the mark for this particular story.
Without revealing too much, I can acknowledge a degree of appreciation for the fact that the book adhered closely to reality. As much as we all yearn for poetic justice and idyllic resolutions in our reads, this book opted for an ending that, while far from ideal, might be closer to what would transpire in real life.
Despite my feelings about the ending and my idealistic wishes, I have to assign 'I Have Some Questions for You' a rating of 2.0 stars. In my view, the narrative could have reached its conclusion much more expeditiously and in a far more gripping manner.
Quick summary:
The central character, Bodie, is a successful podcaster and film professor with a somewhat tumultuous past, marked by the murder of a former classmate and roommate, Thalia. Initially content to leave the past behind and focus on her present, Bodie's life takes a sharp turn when she returns to the boarding school of her youth to teach a course. An undeniable urge to uncover the truth about Thalia's murder consumes her. Was the right person convicted? Did the police rush to close the case, leaving justice unserved? And did Bodie herself play a role in this miscarriage of justice? These questions form the backdrop for the novel, but the execution left much to be desired.
In the realm of literary mysteries, 'I Have Some Questions for You' regrettably falls short, making it a challenging read for those seeking a gripping and immersive narrative.
The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.75
As an avid reader in search of a witchy novel that could capture the enchanting charm of "Gilmore Girls," I stumbled upon "The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches" with hopeful curiosity. Admittedly, I didn't have high expectations when I started, but within just a few pages, I found myself utterly enchanted by the character of Mika Moon and the tenacious young girls at Nowhere House.
This captivating tale explores the life of Mika Moon, a witch with a twist. Unlike the traditional portrayal of covens and the collective drawing of power from one another, Mika belongs to the very secret society of irregular witches. This society operates on a unique principle that witches should keep their distance from one another. Too much magical power in one place can lead to chaos and unwanted attention, so they meet only quarterly, in short bursts. This leaves Mika, who grew up without a family, largely alone, drifting from place to place, avoiding forming meaningful connections. Her only constant is an online persona where she posts videos pretending to be a witch, a clever disguise that conceals her true identity.
The plot takes an intriguing turn when Mika receives a mysterious invitation, or rather, a nearly desperate letter, inviting her to visit Nowhere House to be an instructor. Accepting the invitation defies the rules of her secretive society, yet Mika embarks on this journey to the enigmatic Nowhere House, a place where her life takes a mesmerizing turn. Here, she becomes entwined in the lives of three young girls and the unconventional group of adults who care for them.
"The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches" is a novel bursting with magic, the profound bonds of found family, and a touch of romantic love. The narrative unfolds like a cozy, heartwarming moment by the fireside with a warm mug of coffee. It's a story that leaves you with a tear in your eye at the thought of leaving this beautifully crafted world behind. The book excels in conveying the importance of human connections, even within a world so uniquely defined by its enchanting elements. Mika's journey is both captivating and heartwarming, making this novel a delightful and emotionally resonant read.
The Woman in the Library by Sulari Gentill
dark
mysterious
tense
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? Yes
5.0
I started and finished this book in a matter of hours, which almost never happens for me at this point in my reading journey.
The Woman in the Library is a twisted story-within-a-story, a fact I was unaware of prior to starting the book. In truth, I'm glad I went into this book blindly - I have a tendency to stray from books that employ this writing device, finding the parallel stories distracting and convoluted. Thankfully, Gentill writes in such a captivating manner that I never once wished either storyline were omitted.
Let's start with the main premise of the book: Whit, Freddie, Marigold, and Cain are four strangers who meet by happenstance. Four post-graduate students sharing a table at the Boston Public Library, the group are instantly bonded by the sound of a woman's scream from down the hall. The uncertainty surrounding the scream - and the later discovery of a fellow student's body mere rooms away - instantly bonds the four, sparking a friendship amongst those who might have never met otherwise.
Over the course of the novel, Freddie (the main character, although the other three are just as key to the plot), is taken on a breakneck journey brimming with death, love, betrayals, and uncertainty. Who killed Caroline, the woman in the library? Is Cain truly nothing more than the Handsome Man Freddie labeled him as, or will his dark & twisted history put her and her newfound friends in imminent danger? How does her friendly neighbor, Leo, fit into this narrative?
Now - for the story-within-the-story. From the very beginning, readers are made acutely aware that Freddie and her friends are nothing more than a work of fiction. Hannah, a famous novelist in Australia, is working on her latest novel. As she completes each chapter of her current manuscript, she shares the latest pages with a long-distance friend, Leo. Readers quickly learn that Leo is an avid fan of Hannah's, one who lives in Boston and prides himself on being able to "assist" with Hannah's latest work of art. Perhaps a touch overeager, Leo frequently sends Hannah pictures and descriptions of places around Boston in hopes of enhancing her story.
At first, Leo's suggestions are endearing. In fact, I found myself wondering how their dynamic came to be - how a fan, a reader of Hannah's work, established such frequent and trusted contact with a beloved writer. Isn't that every readers dream?! However, with each correspondence (located at the conclusion of each chapter, reflecting upon the chapter's events), more and more of Leo's true colors began to shine. Is he really just an avid fan, or is there more to Leo's interest in Hannah's work?
All in all, The Woman in the Library was a great way to kick off my 2023 reads. I highly recommend to anyone looking for an easy-to-read mystery that keeps readers guessing until the final chapter.
The Woman in the Library is a twisted story-within-a-story, a fact I was unaware of prior to starting the book. In truth, I'm glad I went into this book blindly - I have a tendency to stray from books that employ this writing device, finding the parallel stories distracting and convoluted. Thankfully, Gentill writes in such a captivating manner that I never once wished either storyline were omitted.
Let's start with the main premise of the book: Whit, Freddie, Marigold, and Cain are four strangers who meet by happenstance. Four post-graduate students sharing a table at the Boston Public Library, the group are instantly bonded by the sound of a woman's scream from down the hall. The uncertainty surrounding the scream - and the later discovery of a fellow student's body mere rooms away - instantly bonds the four, sparking a friendship amongst those who might have never met otherwise.
Over the course of the novel, Freddie (the main character, although the other three are just as key to the plot), is taken on a breakneck journey brimming with death, love, betrayals, and uncertainty. Who killed Caroline, the woman in the library? Is Cain truly nothing more than the Handsome Man Freddie labeled him as, or will his dark & twisted history put her and her newfound friends in imminent danger? How does her friendly neighbor, Leo, fit into this narrative?
Now - for the story-within-the-story. From the very beginning, readers are made acutely aware that Freddie and her friends are nothing more than a work of fiction. Hannah, a famous novelist in Australia, is working on her latest novel. As she completes each chapter of her current manuscript, she shares the latest pages with a long-distance friend, Leo. Readers quickly learn that Leo is an avid fan of Hannah's, one who lives in Boston and prides himself on being able to "assist" with Hannah's latest work of art. Perhaps a touch overeager, Leo frequently sends Hannah pictures and descriptions of places around Boston in hopes of enhancing her story.
At first, Leo's suggestions are endearing. In fact, I found myself wondering how their dynamic came to be - how a fan, a reader of Hannah's work, established such frequent and trusted contact with a beloved writer. Isn't that every readers dream?! However, with each correspondence (located at the conclusion of each chapter, reflecting upon the chapter's events), more and more of Leo's true colors began to shine. Is he really just an avid fan, or is there more to Leo's interest in Hannah's work?
All in all, The Woman in the Library was a great way to kick off my 2023 reads. I highly recommend to anyone looking for an easy-to-read mystery that keeps readers guessing until the final chapter.