Suzanne

Really wanted to like it more

Revisado: 05-16-24

I mistakenly read book 2 before reading this one - book 1. This one just seem to go on and on and on and I frequently had to go back and relisten to chapters because my mind wandered. I stayed with it because I’m running out of authors and new series to listen to. I’m still debating about whether or not to continue listening to the next books in the series. The science and technology concepts in the series are timely given that we already have psychiatric (and maybe other) medications with nano technology for monitoring patient compliance. I just could not connect to the main character although I shared the story’s concerns about the use of this technology.

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Formulaic and gender stereotyping

Revisado: 12-12-23

Predictable. The ending was clear within the first 30 minutes or less. Hoped it would include more about the places traveled but it only dealt with the vapid, self-absorbed actions of a woman whose identity is defined by men. Not worth a credit.

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Deceptively simple - incredibly motivating

Revisado: 10-08-23

I chose this book as a “ light listen” and ended up being inspired and motivated. Quite an engaging story!

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Hard to believe it's 2023 and not 1700 etc

Revisado: 01-12-23

For anyone who has read much about the history of the monarchy in England, the machinations of those who derive their self-esteem from association with others more powerful, rich, or privileged than them will be recognizable. It's sad to read that it's 2023 and court staff members are still creating drama for their own benefit and reward. Of course if one was an adult when Diana was alive, this is just the same story albeit another verse.
For a mental health professional, the results of trauma that he describes are familiar. The amount of "victim-blaming" that the media has engaged in has been frightening and disgusting. But then we live in a post-truth era, don't we?
Yes, he is privileged and wealthy; however, pain is still pain. Are the underprivileged the only ones who can comment on the trauma they have experienced?
Good listen; enjoyed hearing it in his own voice; glad he spoke truth to power.

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Will stand the test of time

Revisado: 10-09-22

Of all the books written about this period of our history, this book is most likely to stand the test of time. Initially I found the narrator to be offputting and somewhat monotonous but as I realized that the book is more journalistic in nature, the author’s straight forward delivery of factual information made more sense. Also in the beginning, I found myself wondering why she had not used more descriptive adjectives in places where it was obvious that they would have been appropriate. As I continued reading I realized again that this was a journalistic endeavor and that the reader could supply all of the adjectives necessary. Most of the book is not new, but the stories and events are connected with context that provides greater understanding of the character involved as well as those around him. It is well sourced and as neutral as one can be when writing about this dark time in our history. Of the 10+ books that I have read around this topic, I can see this one becoming a resource for individuals in the future who are trying to understand how all of this could’ve happened in America. Great - albeit frightening and discouraging - read!

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Great Journalistic Endeavor

Revisado: 11-23-21

As many have commented, the American public has known much of the disturbing facts detailed in this book. However, the book supplies additional firsthand information from sources present during these events and places them in a larger timeline and context that provides a greater understanding albeit a horrific one. This is the by far the most objective and well-sourced book I’ve read about this damning time in our history.

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One of the saddest book’s I’ve read in a long time

Revisado: 10-24-21

Although some of the reviewers’ comments gave me pause, I decided to listen to the book anyway. Given the story line, the narrator was a perfect choice. In the beginning I felt like his voice was monotonous but realized that it was the perfect vehicle for the story as I continued to listen. The story speaks to human experience and existential issues. I’m not sure how to recommend it other than to say that it affected me deeply.

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What a waste of a good narrator

Revisado: 08-30-21

Don't do it. Don't waste your time or money.
Believe the other reviewers who tell you that this story needed an editor or a trash bin. There is no breadth or depth of character development, no engaging action, no purpose whatsoever - not even entertainment. It is so flat as a story that it reminded me of "See Jane run."
If you want to hear a narrator voice the word f*** with so many different character voices that you lose count, this is your book.
If you want to read about a sex addict and his behavior that evokes no sympathy or even eroticism but - by the 10th episode or more - only a reaction of "meh, fast forward," then this is your book.
I am not close-minded and language (as part of character development) does not offend me nor am I offended by sexuality in a story. But in this book, those two things are mind-numbingly gratuitous.
The only good thing about this book and the only thing that kept me listening as long as I did, is the narrator, Colin Morgan, and his ability to voice so many characters well - even the female characters. In fact, he's the reason I risked the purchase. I like Dick Hill, Edoardo Ballerini, Scott Brick, etc. and move easily into a story with a good narrator. However, even Morgan's talent can't save this mess.
I had to give 1 star for overall and story, but if I could have submitted the review without a star for those, I would have. As soon as I submit this review, I'm returning the book. I couldn't force myself to finish it.

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Thoroughly enjoyed and VERY timely

Revisado: 07-18-21

For the very reasons that so many reviewers have indicated that they disliked this book, I was grateful for the recording of historical events with integrity, for the honest discussion of the threats to American democracy, and the straight forward presentation of threats to our country and our democracy from Russia. From an author’s perspective, what greater setting for a novel than a global pandemic and an attempted coup? That said, this did feel at times like a deviation in plot from the typical Allon story lines - not bad just different - there was definitely less of the repetitive recounting of his life story and more new plot which was a nice change for those familiar with the previous books. Overall, it’s still a formula Allon book. However, if you can’t handle characters in a novel disagreeing with your perspective, this is not your book.

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The enjoyment continues

Revisado: 06-19-21

I enjoyed listening to the first book and wasn’t disappointed by this second one. I did find myself wondering about some of the cultural aspects portrayed by the actions of the characters and spent some time reading about them.
However, like the first book, the narration made the story. Colin Morgan’s acting/voice skills are phenomenal and carry the listener along like floating down a river.

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