Elizabeth Taylor

Awkward literary narrative device distracts from story

Revisado: 09-06-19

The audio narration of this book was spot on and captured these unlikeable characters perfectly.
However, the literary narrative format was awkward. The narration is third-person, semi-omniscient except when the author “breaks the fourth wall” and inserts her own voice. That is, we see the actions of all the characters from some central narrator and learn some of the feelings and thoughts of Louise. Then the narrator will bust In and say something ominous like “so and so is about to die.” I couldn’t find a legitimate reason for this 4th-wall breaking narration style. I was hoping that there might be some twist where this was a witty literary device used to propel the story forward. But no such luck.

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Captivating in Austria but lackluster in America

Revisado: 07-09-19

This book was fascinating and had great build up during the Austrian part of the book. However, the relationships that Heddy had after moving to Los Angeles fell flat. The ongoing relationship issues with her mother did not resolve or get tied up in the narrative. The science aspect of the book was repetitive though the political and arms discussions in Austria were vivid and fascinating. I had a hard time getting to know or understand Heddy’s friends and lovers after Austria. The author seemed to think of them as an afterthought.

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Incredibly moving true story

Revisado: 06-16-19

Unlike several historical fiction WWII books I’ve read, this book sounds believable yet incredible at every turn. The characters are likeable and I found myself rooting for each of them and just a bit anxious to know whether each survived the war and how. I shed tears so many times while I listened to this book and talked about it with others. I definitely recommend this book for a good listen and to learn about the experiences of one Jewish family from Poland.

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A bit basic and predictable. The math metaphors were not well done.

Revisado: 06-04-19

I was able to listen to the whole book and enjoyed it. But the plot seemed a bit basic and predictable. The theme of redemption was evident but not in a way that sears itself onto the consciousness. I didn’t feel like I learned anything about the wars themselves. There was no afterword to indicate any of this was based on any type of fact or research.
Pet peeve: Charlie thinks she is good at math but the “equations” she comes up with to describe her relationships make no sense and show either that she deserved her low grades in school or that the author knows nothing about how mathematicians actually process information in the world. She is quick at the addition of checks, which seems more like a bookkeeper skill than that of a mathematician.
Overall this was an easy, pleasant enough listen.

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Just a basic romance/feelings-based novel with 3 narrators

Revisado: 01-09-18

This book was disappointing. The plot was a basic romance-style novel with few interesting plot points and scenes but with three narrators. Somehow I was eager enough to listen until the end, but I didn’t pay as close of attention as I might have in a more complex novel. There were a few feel-good moments but minimal suspense-filled or surprise moments. I most likely wouldn’t buy this author’s work again. I had no issues with the narrator.

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Worth 2 listens!

Revisado: 09-26-17

I listened to this book quickly the first time thinking that that the storyline ending would be predictable. However, the last few chapters provided the twists and turns that made me listen to the entire book the second time for foreshadowing and clues. The second time through everything points to the surprise ending and I got to understand the characters, especially Adele, so much better. This book borders between a psychological thriller and sci-fi/Fantasy.

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The book dragged along but I managed to finish it

Revisado: 08-01-17

I listened to the whole book and kept hoping it would improve. It didn't. Some of the magic spells were cool though as was the world that the author created. Some of the plot twists caught me by surprise though some foreshadowing had been present.
This story was about coming of age and the quest for happiness and meaning. Unfortunately, Quentin never seems to find happiness or his meaning and purpose in life. I don't really want to have to listen to the next two books to find out what makes him happy.

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Mesmerizing Narration, but Story left me wanting more

Revisado: 08-01-17

Hillary Huber beautiful captivates with her voice in this reading especially for the voice of Ana, the yoga teacher. The plot "twists" were predictable with many hints dropped throughout the story. I didn't find Nancy to be a particular likable character or easy to connect with. Instead she comes off as self-righteous, judgmental, and naive. Ana's voice kept calling to me though as it did to Nancy, and Ana kept the plot moving forward.

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Captivating until the very end

Revisado: 06-26-17

Wow. This novel increased in power and intensity until the conclusion, which made my body shiver. I was hooked from the first chapter. The protagonist is likable and her first-person narrative enticing. If you love psychological thrillers, you should give this book a listen.

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