The Yellow Eyes of Crocodiles
Ratings6
Average rating3.2
15
Ratings6
Average rating3.2
Le Divorce meets The Elegance of the Hedgehog in this hilariously entertaining mega-bestseller from France When her chronically unemployed husband runs off to start a crocodile farm in Kenya with his mistress, Joséphine Cortès is left in an unhappy state of affairs. The mother of two—confident, beautiful teenage Hortense and shy, babyish Zoé—is forced to maintain a stable family life while making ends meet on her meager salary as a medieval history scholar. Meanwhile, Joséphine’s charismatic sister Iris seems to have it all—a wealthy husband, gorgeous looks, and a très chic Paris address—but she dreams of bringing meaning back into her life. When Iris charms a famous publisher into offering her a lucrative deal for a twelfth-century romance, she offers her sister a deal of her own: Joséphine will write the novel and pocket all the proceeds, but the book will be published under Iris’s name. All is well—that is, until the book becomes the literary sensation of the season.
Reviews with the most likes.
I have very mixed feelings about this book. It is a translation, and was originally written in French, and as such, there are some themes that are universal, but some cultural differences between France and The United States. In that respect I definitely spent some time this week reflecting on cultural expectations and differences.
I really didn't like any of the characters in the book. It reminded me of when I read Gone Girl and hated nearly everyone. I do concede, however, that for a book to make me feel so strongly about a character, there is good writing there. The ending was a bit weak, compared to the 400 page buildup, but at least some good won out.
Interesting book. Would have been interesting as a book club choice.
I enjoyed this trip to France. Some circumstances were a tad farfetched but an enjoyable read nonetheless.
I enjoyed this even though it was a little predictable. I thought the idea was a real interesting one. I am going to read the next book to see what happens next.
