Elise G

I have mixed feelings about this book. I chose to read it based on the many positive reviews and I thought it’s a short book, so it’ll be an easy, quick read. I definitely got that wrong. It’s taken me a couple of months to read this book, partly because I struggled with how it was written. It’s translated from Japanese, and I’m sure it reads better in its original language. The book is written in a simplistic way (based on a play), yet it was almost a bit disjointed with the language not quite flowing and a lot of reparative descriptions. It’s a small book with 4 various stories that all integrate together. I did like that strategy and found it clever in theory, however I still struggled to enjoy the book. I persisted and finished it but can’t say I’d recommend it. I’m very neutral about this book and will probably remember it more for the struggle I had, rather than the heartwarming story. It just wasn’t my cup of tea (or coffee) however it may be yours! :-)

Really enjoyed this book. I knew nothing about the story however the author was recommended. The story kept me engaged the entire time and I kept wanting to know more. The end was a satisfying finish and the story/theme was very good. I loved the style of writing and will now try a few more of her novels. Definitely recommended!

I didn’t enjoy this at all. I stumbled across it in a street library and I have to say I’m glad I didn’t buy it. I kept thinking it would improve or make more sense however it never did, so I’m pretty let down. Perhaps I’m not the right age demographic (50) but this wasn’t funny or entertaining. I couldn’t warm to the main character (or any of the others really). It all felt very disconnected and unpleasant. It was an ‘odd’ story about divorce and relationships between friends and others, however I just felt really sad for the main character and it all was just slightly ridiculous. A definite NO from me!

I bought this book as an easy read and it’s definitely that. Towards the end the “thriller” part became quite predictable and I knew where it was going to lead. Any other ending wouldnt have been satisfying enough so I understand the choice. So it’s a 3-4 rating for me because I had hoped for more. Regardless it was enjoyable to read and I thought the style of the chapters was a great idea.I do enjoy the L. Moriarty books better with their twists however this was a good easy read.