I really wanted to love this one...
But, alas, I could not. Although the book was a quick read, I found myself questioning the motives & personalities of the characters. Often the scenerios just didn't seem plausible & I just didn't discover anything new or refreshing in the telling of this ancient tale. In fact, in certain respects, I've heard this story before in real life. I kept waiting for something earth-shattering to occur and by that time, for me, it was too little, too late.
Rated of 5
by Sheryl R. (DeQuincy, LA)
A roller coaster read
This book about the affair of an upper class writer in the "perfect" marriage began rather slowly and I found myself rather unfavorably wondering if the story was nothing more than a Gatsby redux. A short way into the book, though, I began to care about the characters and the effects of their individual actions on the others and the group. By mid-book, the carefully well-crafted story hooked me and I had a hard time putting the book down. Ultimately, though, by the time the book ended, I was bored again and the messages of the plot seemed trite and a little stale. F. Scott Fitzgerald did it better in The Great Gatsby.
Rated of 5
by Carolyn S. (Decatur, GA)
Indiscretion
Indiscretion by Charles Dubow was a less than satisfying novel because it used a predictable and overused plotline with characters that did not fit in the present day. The characters, the rich and the dissatisfied did not seem authentic. There was nothing about them that you could have empathy for in today's life. The narration of the story between the first and third person was disruptive. I would not recommend this book.
Rated of 5
by Diane D. (Cape Elizabeth, ME)
Good story, but not great
I was a little disappointed. Dubow develops lovable characters that are flawed, but I found the narrative a bit awkward. It's certainly a quick read with a plotline that draws you in.
Rated of 5
by Judith B. (Omaha, Nebraska)
Romance in the Hamptons
This debut novel features a plot that is populated with characters of questionable morality. Their actions seem to spring from purely selfish motives that slowly enfold over the course of the book. The story is narrated by a biased Walter who is not identified until page 25, resulting in a confused voice. The pretend happy ending seems to be unnecessary and merely a page-filler. The actual ending is realistic if not expected. This book is about people who are able to deal with death and disappointment because money is not an issue. The story centers around the complex relationship of young Claire who takes shortcuts to love and success, Maddy whose privileged background has left her ill-equipped to deal with loss, and Harry whose early popularity and literary success have resulted in the belief that he could take whatever he wanted. I didn't like these people, but I did enjoy Dubow's use of language, character development, and style of writing. The book should appeal to readers who are seeking light entertainment. I don't intend to recommend it to my book groups.
Rated of 5
by Ariel F. (Madison, WI)
Like the Great Gatsby? You'll enjoy this book.
Interesting readable novel set in the New York City area. If you liked the Great Gatsby, you will like this novel.
It was a quick read about a successful author, his indiscretions and their impact on others. The characters were wealthy and for the most part likeable.
I would recommend this for female readers.
Rated of 5
by Jean G. (Rockford, IL)
an age old discussion
This book reads very elementary in subject and simplistic in style and diction, one I first thought of as an inconsequential beach read. It is saved by the clever appearance of the narrator who has an integral part in the story along with his occasional narration. This provides some much needed depth into the actions of the characters who on the whole remain one-dimensional throughout. Predictable events take place and most of the emotion drawn out of the reader comes from the narrator's ability to surprise. There are consequences in the lives of the characters that create fodder for discussion. A modern story involving the twists and turns of life. Easily read and a good read for book clubs.
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of 5
by Aleksandra E. (Alpharetta, GA)
