This blog...
I have made this blog for the sole purpose of keeping track of the books I have read. Some day I will look back and say "WOW! I sure do read a lot!"
For those of you that come across this blog, I hope you find it useful. It may help you find your next book, get a new perspective on a book you've already read, or at the very least, provide a new way for you to waste a few minutes of your day.
The truth about this book is that I started reading it multiple times, and I read it in between waiting for other books. I am really proud of myself that I finally finished it because for a while there I had given up. So, now that I am done with it the question is...What did I think about it? And after thinking about it for a bit, I have decided that I am on the fence. The idea was very interesting, and the fact that she went through with it all was very admirable.
My problem is this; what are the possible implication a book like this is going to have on others? Especially women who might be having a hard time with their marriage? Those who read this book may be more likely to decide to leave their loved ones and go on this soul searching trip. The fact that Elizabeth finds this crazy "Brazilian lover" as the end, is probably what have the most issue with. What is the reality of other women doing this year long soul search trip and finding an incredible man? I mean, seriously.
I think it is great for her, but I think that there is a possibility of their being a larger repercussion and affect on the readers.
I spent months waiting for this book, I knew more or less what it was about and it sounded really interesting. At the beginning it was incredible, I love the writing style and the imagination behind it. I have always been drawn to books that jump around in time and place, but come together in the end. This book was living up to my expectations, it had such great twists and turns.
And then it all went south!! The last fifth of the book was horrible. I mean it was well written and the imagination is there...but I cannot believe she actually wrote it. I guess I am spoiled and expect a happy ending, or at the very least not a gruesome one!! It does not seem fair, Clare's life was entirely based on Henry's presence...and then she is left alone at 37?! It's almost like her life is jaded by him and he knows it, and doesn't change it!
It makes me wonder what kind of a childhood the author had? She had it in her power to give her readers a happy and hopeful ending, but she did not. Instead she robs us of any sense of security and self preservation. If she ever writes another book...I really do hope she redeems herself.
