I can understand why people give this book good reviews, but I’m conflicted. I appreciate the author’s writing style and, honestly, her brilliance in crafting such a twisted book. There were parts that were insightful about how we take things for granted or how we interact with those close to us over time that allowed for some introspection, which I appreciated.
Overall, though, I really disliked this book. The first half was plain hard to get through – when I put the book down, I dreaded picking it back up. At almost halfway through, it picked up, and for a hot minute I was very interested in how things were going. Too soon, though, it got both predictable and frustrating. The end was understandable, both in how things were closed and with the author leaving room for a sequel, but it was unsatisfying.
At the end of the day, I don’t really want to see into a sociopath’s mind on such a nitpicky level. Three stars for the author’s talent, but only three for my own personal preference and struggles in getting through it. I think this story will definitely make a better movie.
Best quotes (in my opinion):
“Give me a man with a little fight in him, a man who calls me on my bullshit. (But who also kind of likes my bullshit.)”
“Nick always mocked my endless lists. (‘It’s like you make sure you’re never satisfied, that there’s always something else to be perfected, instead of just enjoying the moment.’)”
“It feels nice, after my recent series of nervous, respectful post-feminist men, to be a territory.”
Inquisitive Explorer 