Katie

How many journalists have ever written a readable full-length book? I'm sure it can happen, right?
I just had to get that out- When I start to skim a book and sigh when I realize how many pages I have left.. never a good sign.
But! The topic is fascinating and the culture/history engaging. It just didn't satisfy that need for story.

I started reading it and didn't like it at all.. per my Grandmother's advice, I found that the book on tape was way more enjoyable.

I pretty much love anything that Mary Roach writes. This one didn't disappoint. My gag reflex was engaged from time to time, but otherwise I loved it!

The characters in this book had very distinct voices, at least in my head. Fun and easy read. Things were wrapped up a little too nicely for my taste, and the Afterward took the shine off her nice ending.

I was so happy with this book for the half of it that I've read so far.. Compared to most mystery thriller type crap, it has a lot of good writing/character development, etc. The story is actually told without constant dialogue!

Basically, I loved reading this book until it incorporated the element of woman as rape/torture victim. Reading those kind of story lines are troubling, for sure, but more importantly, they have become really boring and stereotypical. Seriously, are there any thrillers out there without this stuff? Part of me thinks that readers of these types of books become numb to REAL violations of women's bodies and rights, or at least expect it to happen. (I guess I should have known when Lisbeth was described as so thin and vulnerable that the author might disappoint in this way)


I do have half the book left.. we'll see if it gets better (or worse).


update... It didn't get better, but at least he's not playing fake relationship with Lisbeth anymore.