JillHen

Like a woo-woo Hallmark movie

Revisado: 12-13-24

I’m bummed to say how I felt about this book because Matt Haig is a writer of kindness and humanity… but this one induced many eye-rolls.

The underlying theme is “save the planet”. It uses magical realism to deliver a tale of profound love, loss and redemption. But it is trite and un-extraordinary, as if written by a Greta Thurnberg wannabe poorly imitating Gabriel Garcia Marquez within the framework of a Hallmark holiday movie, complete with big bad developer threatening to bulldoze the family farm. (Not to insult Hallmark movies, which I enjoy very much for their corny, cozy storylines.)

This novel however is also kind of boring. I struggled to finish. Its heart is in the right place, but it’s just a bland experience.

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The Talented Miss Wood

Revisado: 07-31-24

Fantastic! Echoes of Patricia Highsmith, a smidgeon of The Secret History… intriguing, engrossing, satisfying. Not your average thin-but-entertaining thriller; this story has literary merit. Loved it!

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Well played, Freida

Revisado: 06-18-24

I re-listened to books 1 and 2 before beginning— a worthwhile decision as I was reminded of details that became pertinent to the story in book 3. Also was reminded of how much I like this series! It’s highly engaging and good fun. Happy to say Book 3 did not disappoint! A satisfying ending to a wildly entertaining series. Lauryn Allman’s narration is absolutely perfect. I enjoy the way she delivers the witty commentary Frieda weaves into her stories. An excellent listen.

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Freida Phones It In

Revisado: 03-01-24

Alternate title ideas:

Ward D minus
They Made This Movie a Million Times
So Predictable I Didn’t Need to Finish
Don’t Let The Inmates Run The Asylum
D is for Duh
I Spent A Credit so You Don’t Have To

It’s still a good listen, as Frieda always knows how to keep us entertained… but seriously it’s so unoriginal. Sorry Frieda, I like you a lot, maybe take a break from cranking out so many books and come up with some fresh ideas.

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Fun page turner

Revisado: 11-04-23

Grabbed me right away!
The premise is great. The situation quickly becomes preposterous, but I can roll with it for the sake of entertainment. And it’s got some sly humor for the win. Natalie Barelli delivers again!

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Sneaks up on you

Revisado: 07-07-23

Wow, what a surprise… this book seemed like such a departure from the last that I wasn’t sure I’d like it. So glad I gave it a chance! It’s not an exaggeration: this book is a literary gem and a study of fine storytelling. The songs were a perfect vehicle to drive the plot forward and resolve unanswered questions. I’m not one to write reviews these days unless something really stands out as exceptional. This book was unexpectedly moving, so subtly profound. Five stars.

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Tremendous!

Revisado: 06-23-23

Not only an enthralling story; the literary merit is off the charts! The situation this character gets herself into is so precarious and cringey. I hung on every word. If you aren’t a fan of unlikeable/flawed protagonists you may not enjoy this one, but it’s a brilliant satire/ commentary/ fun ride and I recommend giving it a chance. Five big stars!

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Stupendous!

Revisado: 06-08-23

The reviews are across the board here, which only furthers the point that taste and appreciation are subjective. I devoured this novel and found many layers to tease out of the rather ordinary facade the author created. I suspect it’s a Roman á clef and may resonate more with writers or those who engage in creative pursuits, but the underlying theme of perseverance of spirit has universal appeal.
It’s a good story too. I was interested the whole way through.
Rarely am I moved to write reviews, but I feel compelled to share my enthusiasm. It’s a wonderful story of self discovery which has me feeling reflective and hopeful. On the surface it may not be for everyone, but if you enjoy probing layers underneath it won’t let you down. So glad I finally listened!

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Marvelous

Revisado: 03-10-23

So good I had to listen again from the beginning to fully appreciate how the author resolved the many threads woven throughout the story. Clever, taut use of symbolism & allegory elevates the experience. This book has it all: humor, pathos, snark, tension… A true literary achievement.

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Sneaky, cinematic thriller

Revisado: 02-02-23

Wow. At the beginning, this book fooled me into thinking it was going to be just okay, maybe even a little silly. But it was a sly thriller indeed. Highly cinematic— I could see the movie in my mind. Highly recommended!

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