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on June 1, 2015
I have to say I struggled with completing this one. Not because of the domestic violence part but the characters. It was also about a bunch of "catty women" and snide comments that honestly I did not relate to. I would call it a hard read since I forced myself to finish it.
on June 2, 2017
I say roller coaster because it started of kind of slow and jerky for me. I'm used to fast-paced thrillers, but I was reading this as part of a group. As the book finally hinted at "murder", I got interested and couldn't wait for the climax. The thrill got to be the twists and turns, not the drop from the hill. The satisfaction came from the few small turns right before pulling into the stop. I really enjoyed it.
on May 9, 2017
Revealing book , great storyline! This is my 2nd time to read it and after HBO made it a mini series thought I'd read it again. I wish that HBO would have stuck more to the characters and stories in the book. I liked. Madeline in the book and was disappointed in her character on the mini series. Overall a must read and as always Moriaty does an awesome job of everyday lives and the stories they tell.
on December 11, 2015
I purchased this for my four hour plane ride to San Diego. I didn't finish in the plane but I kept picking up my phone to read it during the conference I attended. So entertaining and captivating. It was on a list for best dark fiction according to Stephen King. I feel like it is a dark comedy and a great read. The storyline follows three parents of kindergarteners who are navigating the politics of that world. I laughed out loud many times because it seems so trivial but because I work in education I know that it is true in so many levels. Great book.
on March 24, 2017
So easy to get hook on Lianne Moriarty. You'll step in line to be part of the fan base. She's good, inventive and is "a chick writing for other chicks." Women will understand and appreciate the dialogue to be sure. Her work is clever and holds your interest. You may have it all figured out before the last page, but I'll bet you don't. :-)
on May 18, 2017
This one is fun. The book starts off in a breezy, light manner, and then builds layer upon layer, to a rich conclusion. There are many characters, but each has a distinct voice and dimension. And it's the story's transitions which are the most impressive. They are seamless, and reveal the author's talent in toggling between the light and witty to the deeply serious.
on May 21, 2017
I really enjoyed this book, especially the ending as it was very different. I have read Liane Moriarty's other books and enjoyed every one.I really enjoy British authors... a change of pace. If you are trying to decide to get this book...go for it. Its a really enjoyable read. Parents will especially understand the plot and trials of this age of parenthood.
on June 18, 2017
So often the truth is something we are told, not necessarily fact. As it is said, People tell you what they want you to believe." This is definitely the case in this book. What looks perfect from the vantage point of many characters is not in fact "the truth". The true measure that this book must convey is that domestic violence should never be kept a secret.
on March 31, 2017
It's an entertaining read, I'll give it that. But was anyone actually surprised by the culprits? Seriously. Anyone? Spoilers follow, if that's even possible...
Of course the bully was one of twins emulating their father. That was obvious from Perry's very first abusive episode onward. And Jane's abuser was even more blatant. The attempt to confuse with Saxon was downright silly. I just don't see how anyone could not see who Ziggy's father was the moment Jane discusses her encounter with Madeline. Reading from that point on just felt like pulling teeth until the inevitable "reveal" took place, at which point it's kind of like, eh. I knew that 300 pages ago. I especially enjoyed the idea that it had just never, ever occurred to Jane that her abuser might have lied about his name. I mean, who lies about their name before choking and raping a woman?
I don't know. Something about all of these "abused women having revelations" stories is getting frustrating. They're always just a bunch of emotionally unstable idiots letting men treat them like trash until they (ever so slowly) catch up with the reader. Then the author wants you to think they're strong or righteous or something. It just doesn't work.
Of course the bully was one of twins emulating their father. That was obvious from Perry's very first abusive episode onward. And Jane's abuser was even more blatant. The attempt to confuse with Saxon was downright silly. I just don't see how anyone could not see who Ziggy's father was the moment Jane discusses her encounter with Madeline. Reading from that point on just felt like pulling teeth until the inevitable "reveal" took place, at which point it's kind of like, eh. I knew that 300 pages ago. I especially enjoyed the idea that it had just never, ever occurred to Jane that her abuser might have lied about his name. I mean, who lies about their name before choking and raping a woman?
I don't know. Something about all of these "abused women having revelations" stories is getting frustrating. They're always just a bunch of emotionally unstable idiots letting men treat them like trash until they (ever so slowly) catch up with the reader. Then the author wants you to think they're strong or righteous or something. It just doesn't work.
