Secrets of Eden by Chris BohjalianMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
Bohjalian is a really talented writer. Exceptional. He likes to tell stories with a mystery, twist, or unexpected ending. He likes to challenge conventional notions by infusing his stories with some sort of mysticism or New Age-y-ness. (yes, not a word, but you get what I am saying, right?) This story is no exception. It is the story of an abusive marriage that ends in a murder/homicide as told from the perspective of 4 (unreliable) narrators. Each narrator sheds a differing view and fills in more of the story.
My main complaints with the book are manyfold: The surprise ending wasn't a surprise. The characters were all unlikeable. And one character (Heather Laurent) seemed completely irrelevant. The angel/aura thing was just really weird and did not add to the plot in any way. The story was too graphic (I get why, but still.)
I gave it three stars because he can really write. If you want to check out a good Bohjalian book, read The Double Bind.
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5 comments:
Have you read Midwives? I really liked that although it's been a long time since I read it. How does that compare with Double Bind?
I just don't know how you read so many books! You devour them! I need to learn to read faster. :)
Tiffany is right. You are an amazing reader.
I haven't had time to read since January(so sad), yet another reason I wish I was a little more like you.
Do you think Mike would like any of his books?
Miss ya!
p.s.
You write the best reviews!
Durham,
I read Midwives years ago and LOVED it. I have been meaning to read it again and see if I feel the same about it.
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