Brig Berthold
Was this book worth my time? Yes, but only if it aids in helping most others to stay away from it.
I enjoyed the framework of the storyline, and, with more brief narrative, would have enjoyed it much more. The length of this story is well justified, though not by the woven strands of plot. Rather, the justification of its length is derived in the circumstances of the story's original publication. Interestingly enough, the history of this work of fiction is far more interesting than the work itself. Pieces of the storyline, which held the most notable weight, were absurdly underdeveloped.
This was great fun. Thrilling, a bit confusing, and every bit as climactic as you hope a good mystery will be. It is no wonder this novel picked up such acclaim following its release.
Told in deep first person perspective, the narrative follows three characters as their lives interweave. The author's depiction of neuroticism is wickedly accurate. Equally, and disturbingly, well achieved is the characterization of addiction as experienced by the addicted.
Fine work.
I didn't love this experience and I'm still trying to decide why. I didn't hate it, and for those who've read this book the reasons for that should be apparent. Perhaps it was the narrator. Perhaps it was me. I'm willing to be wrong.
This book was good but I wanted a lot more of the devil, especially given the title. We get a lot of The White City and disproportionate amount of information concerning H. H. Holmes. I understand Larson's challenge in discovering accurate information is the origin of the lacking details.
In spite of this, I enjoyed the book. Considering the research and information Larson obtained, and its age, makes this work impressive. The organization of that information, and the resulting narrative, was interesting and informative in tandem.
Okay, I finally got it. The climax was worthwhile but I was unfailingly surprised that I was at all pleased.
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3920693-richard-reviles-censorship-always-in-all-ways said, “Tom Rob Smith wrote this awful book about awful people doing awful things in an awful country to amuse and entertain us.” This review says it all. But, in case you want to know my personal feelings, I will briefly indulge you. First, this is a truly grizzly subject matter. I have a propensity for the darker side of fiction and this certainly did not fail. Those who chalk this up as a thriller or a crime novel will get their money's worth. Second, some people in the Goodreads world have added this book to lists reserved for spies and agents of espionage. Leo is an officer in the Soviet State Security (MGB). The Stalinist nation lived in constant fear of punishment for being associated, even by rumor, with anti-Soviet sentiment. His position and cultural norms do not qualify this book as having anything to do with spies or espionage. Needless to say, when I was not met with any of the aforementioned subject matter, I was a little upset. If you're looking for spies, just re-read [b:Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy 18989 Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy John le Carré https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1327889127s/18989.jpg 2491780].
This audio book was so much fun. Gaffigan sets you up with the expectation that this will be a simple autobiography with loads of humor. The best part is, that's what you get. More importantly, he helps you see that you're probably not the only person feeling the same way about things. His delivery is delightful, the stories were endearing, and he reads the whole thing to you; always an enormous bonus.
I only allowed myself to reduce my rating from 5 to 4 stars on the principle that a 5-star rating ought to obtain its status with little if any, reservation. Something has me wondering if this memoir is a direct, strategic move put in action by a highly motivated counterintelligence team buried deep inside Pyongyang. While I am an ardent supporter of those who flee from the DPRK and an involved student of the difficulties as they progress on the peninsula, with this account being the first of its kind I feel a modicum of hesitation toward unrestricted confidence.
I must add my thoughts that the information provided in this account is fascinating. If nothing else, the mere possibility of what has been reported as truth, kept me on the edge of my seat as I considered it's implications for US foreign policy, international criminality, and relief aid for those still ruled by the Kim dynasty.
Holy CRAP!! This book was awesome but it is not for the faint of heart.
I was not sure what to think about this book at first. I listened to the audio version from Audible.com and after the three-minute preview I simply had to know more. What I got was far more than I bargained for every which way.
It really was like “Dexter” mixed with “50 Shades.” The sexual stuff is artful in its blunt force. Torre demystifies the profession of sex cam modeling and it quickly turned from erotica to normalcy. In its wake we are given a delightfully twisted character trying to solve a crime so dark I can't believe I didn't bump my shin as I sprinted toward the finish!
I can say no more without giving away the things you sturdy readers need to go get for yourselves.
Wow!
This book is fantastic. Talk about taking a complex topic and making it accessible.
Don Miller tells us stories from his life while introducing lessons and insights he has gained. The focal point of the book is the concept that people ought to see their lives through the framework of story. Consider building your character the same way a fiction author would develop a main character. Shift your view of challenges from show-stopping events, to negative turns on your Hero's Journey. This hardly covers what Don brings to the table.
I cannot adequately express how much I loved this book. It will remain in my library for years and I plan to lend it out as often as possible.
Finally, Don does not stray away from, or avoid, God in his analysis of life. In fact, he embraces God without being pushy or evangelical. It was the perfect nuance for the narrative arc and I am sold.
I loved this story. It was so cute and loving and warm. Themes of love and coming of age. I will recommend this widely.
Some found the conclusion of this novel disappointing. I, on the other hand, enjoyed the finale. This is a dubious, twisting tale of betrayal, mistrust, deception, and offensive espionage. Simple yet intricate, all while avoiding wildly esoteric elements. John le Carré in fine form.
That ending!
This was far better than I expected it to be. All I knew was that I love this author. Once again, he didn't disappoint.
Well, I have a few things to say.
1) I get all of the references now
2) It really was as good as they say
3) Sense and Sensibility was still better
That is all, hahaha.
Wow. This was truly well written. Selleck nails the dialogue. Both internal and external dialogue, paint a clear picture for the reader. Character development, dynamics, and destiny were all executed in fine form.
Obviously, one cannot escape the moral, or ethical, theme throughout the plot. However, unlike other authors, Selleck does not drag the reader through an uncomfortable self-examination. Readers are gently invited to revisit their worldviews without being badgered or beaten into facing or accepting the author's perspective.
Whatever self-examination the author hoped the reader would experience takes place with Ora. Cute, quirky, and endearing. I hope this short work stands the test of time. I see Middle School reading curriculum. This book will gently challenge young minds in the fashion of Edith Wharton. For the record, I do not make that statement lightly.
