Await Your Reply
The author's prominence as a short-story writer is demonstrated by this latest publication, which incorporates three separate stories into a thrilling and surprising novel. The chapters rotate among the characters, leaving the reader to question the possible connection. If the reader follows closely, he or she is rewarded with a thrilling and unexpected conclusion.
The characters are forlorn and the novel somewhat dark, but if one enjoys short stories and surprise endings, this is a terrific read.
Rated of 5
by David M. (Glendale, CA)
Chaon is an excellent storyteller!
Anyone who enjoyed the film Memento will love Chaon’s latest novel. Essentially, it is a mystery made up of many layers, with each of the three main characters independently unveiling a piece of a fascinating puzzle. At the heart of it all is a mad genius, who could easily have emerged from the creative mind of Dean Koontz.
Rated of 5
by Linda W. (Lincoln, IL)
Await Your Reply by Dan Chaon
The introduction of three separate groups of characters throughout the book made me keep reading. I just knew there HAD to be some connection. Each character was unhappy being who they were and wanted to be someone else or have a different life. Each had his/her own idea of how to accomplish this. One searched endlessly for his twin brother, another sought wealth by attaching to a school teacher and running away and one sought to spend time with his biological father. The book gives a good story for each group. However, I still believe there was a definite connection that I missed. I know each was not who they seemed to be and all wanted to be something else. Did they succeed? You'll have to read to know. Generally, I really liked this book and recommend it to anyone!
Rated of 5
by Maureen S. (Rainier, WA)
Who Are We if not our Data
In this chilling page-turner, Dan Chaon let's us follow three strangers Ryan, Lucy, and Miles on three adventures to identity. The first page of the book is a masterpiece, it grabs you by the throat and won't let you go until you've read the whole book.
This is a must read for mystery and suspense readers. Book clubs will find a wealth of discussion in the issues that Chaon's raises. For instance, who has the better life, the searcher or the searched for? Or, what exactly is the meaning of identity? Have you every wished you could wipe the slate clean, and take a mulligan?
Whether you're just reading for the thrill and the mystery or delving into the deeper questions, Await Your Reply, should be on the top of this year's reading list.
Rated of 5
by Anita S. (West Bloomfield, MI)
Do We Really Know Our Family and Friends
This is an astonishing book. From the very beginning, I could not put it down. I found myself holding my breath as I read it. The characters are so startlingly real, that at times I felt as though I were one of them. As I was caught up in the wonderful, mysterious story, this book made me think about life and existence as it asks the question 'Do we really know those around us?' I recommend this book to all who want to read a great book.
Rated of 5
by Susan P. (Rehoboth, MA)
Await Your Reply
There are many things about this book to like, and I found it to be a fast read. The characters and their individual stories are intriguing, and the author's manner of linking their stories via the mysterious Hayden, holds the narrative together quite well. It would be a good pick for book clubs that are interested in discussing themes such as family, loss, and the possibility of re-inventing oneself.
Rated of 5
by Stanley W. (Columbus, OH)
Await Your Reply
I was instantly drawn into this trio of stories that deals with connections and questions. Although I did find some of the characters more compelling than others, the brilliant weaving of the three separate tales add up to one good read. The book is mysterious, melancholy, and the conclusion is both surprising and satisfying. I highly recommend this book.
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of 5
by Mary Ellen (Canfield, OH)
