Helpful Score: 2
I found this novel a compelling and satisfying read. A man looks back at the time, in his teen years, when his father's sudden death rolled up a curtain on disturbing family dynamics and circumstances from which, until then, he had been shielded from by the security of the love he and his father shared. The author's style is strong and sure -- he especially has a talent for evoking place, nature and season -- and he has created some memorable characters. I felt the plot had a few bumpy spots -- not just shocking or surprising turns, of which there are plenty -- but the overall excellence of the story pulled me quickly past any small flaws. Highly recommend this one!
Helpful Score: 1
I found the book slow of pace. I read the first two chapters and then skipped to the end to see what happened. The main character is narrating the story and there is an odd feel to the other people in the story, everyone is evil or a victim. I guess I felt there was never any happy point in the story. It is an easy read but not overly exciting.
