I feel like I say the same thing about my book club books each month - it was alright, but I didn't love it. It was the same this time. This book started out really slowly, and although it did pick up in the second half, it was still not that great. I felt like the story line was so predictable, even though the author tried throwing something unexpected into the plot. I think she wanted us to be surprised, maybe even shocked, at this plot twist, but it didn't really do anything for me. Maybe if I had read this book years ago (although it was only published in 2014) then I would have been more scandalized, but this stuff is pretty mainstream now.
I also felt that the plot devices were tired, I could have almost written the same story. The writing and descriptions of things were good, and reminiscent of the time period in which the story is set (1920s England). I was sort of expecting more Downton Abbey, and there was a bit of that port-war atmosphere, but my Downton desire was not satisfied.
I had no real sympathy for the characters. There were aspects of them that were likeable, but overall, I almost felt they got what they deserved.
I don't think I would recommend this book - you can do better.
See our past selections here:
A little note about A House in the Sky. I went to see Amanda Lindhout speak last week at a Women of Influence event. I really enjoyed it. I wasn't sure what to expect of her. I had mixed feelings about the book, and about her, but I think I'm a fan now. It is pretty amazing that she has been able to recover from her time in captivity, and thrive.
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