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The Network
A plot twist so shocking, it will leave you reeling!
Sam Canon is a brilliant journalist, with the perfect life and boyfriend - until their relationship ends abruptly. Lost and hurt, Sam calls on her best friend, Bella, to help her to escape from the bitter memories which block her from moving on.
An opportunity in Indonesia enables Sam to complete her escape - the warmth of Jakarta and her new workmates enhance this vastly different life, and she finds happiness again. And she also finds love - or did love find her? As the months speed past, passion and desire return to her - until her instincts are awakened, and doubt begins to cloud her judgement. As the strange bond between her new man and his friend begins to eat at her, everything she has secured for herself in this country, so rich in colour and culture, is called into question.
Who can she trust? The more she seeks the truth, the more shocking and dangerousare her discoveries. With nobody left to help, she turns to her oldest friend Bella for help - but will Bella be too late?
This story of love, fear and deception is filled with intrigue and surprise - with actions at a breathtaking pace that will leave you engrossed in the subtleties of Indonesia and the people who share Sam's life.
Sam Canon is a brilliant journalist, with the perfect life and boyfriend - until their relationship ends abruptly. Lost and hurt, Sam calls on her best friend, Bella, to help her to escape from the bitter memories which block her from moving on.
An opportunity in Indonesia enables Sam to complete her escape - the warmth of Jakarta and her new workmates enhance this vastly different life, and she finds happiness again. And she also finds love - or did love find her? As the months speed past, passion and desire return to her - until her instincts are awakened, and doubt begins to cloud her judgement. As the strange bond between her new man and his friend begins to eat at her, everything she has secured for herself in this country, so rich in colour and culture, is called into question.
Who can she trust? The more she seeks the truth, the more shocking and dangerousare her discoveries. With nobody left to help, she turns to her oldest friend Bella for help - but will Bella be too late?
This story of love, fear and deception is filled with intrigue and surprise - with actions at a breathtaking pace that will leave you engrossed in the subtleties of Indonesia and the people who share Sam's life.
334 pages, ebook
Published December 21, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
March 8, 2021
Passion.Deceit.Betrayal.
"Trust shouldn't be automatically bestowed, it needed to be earned."
A contemporary fiction depicts the journey of Sam Canon, an ambitious and aspiring young graduate who wants to be a successful reporter. But after she feels that her career stagnated without any progress and her boyfriend cheat on her, she wants to move away to a foreign country to open a new book. With help from her friend Bella Carlisle, she managed to get a new job. And that was the beginning of passion, deceit, and betrayal.
Since I was familiar with Indonesian culture, the author did an excellent job with her extensive knowledge about Indonesia that enriches the story like their food and famous places like Ancol and National Monument(Monas). Several main issues that had been highlighted in the story are religious extremism, illegal logging, deforestation, and women's role in their society also adding some good points there.
This book also describes and gives insights to readers about the reality of the journalism world. The struggles, deadlines, and how the news is produced from A to Z.
Another thing that I think should not be overlooked from this story is the beautiful friendship between Sam and Bella. Bella was portrayed as an archetypal type of modern, independent, and strong woman with beauty. She really cares about Sam and always ready to help her whenever she needed Bella. She always worried when Sam seems to be naive about man and love. A true friend indeed. Who doesn't want a friend like her?
The story gets more interesting from pages to pages with more suspense added with some plot twist. It makes readers wonder what will happen next. For me, this book worth 5 stars, and everyone who loves contemporary fiction should add this book to their list.
"Trust shouldn't be automatically bestowed, it needed to be earned."
A contemporary fiction depicts the journey of Sam Canon, an ambitious and aspiring young graduate who wants to be a successful reporter. But after she feels that her career stagnated without any progress and her boyfriend cheat on her, she wants to move away to a foreign country to open a new book. With help from her friend Bella Carlisle, she managed to get a new job. And that was the beginning of passion, deceit, and betrayal.
Since I was familiar with Indonesian culture, the author did an excellent job with her extensive knowledge about Indonesia that enriches the story like their food and famous places like Ancol and National Monument(Monas). Several main issues that had been highlighted in the story are religious extremism, illegal logging, deforestation, and women's role in their society also adding some good points there.
This book also describes and gives insights to readers about the reality of the journalism world. The struggles, deadlines, and how the news is produced from A to Z.
Another thing that I think should not be overlooked from this story is the beautiful friendship between Sam and Bella. Bella was portrayed as an archetypal type of modern, independent, and strong woman with beauty. She really cares about Sam and always ready to help her whenever she needed Bella. She always worried when Sam seems to be naive about man and love. A true friend indeed. Who doesn't want a friend like her?
The story gets more interesting from pages to pages with more suspense added with some plot twist. It makes readers wonder what will happen next. For me, this book worth 5 stars, and everyone who loves contemporary fiction should add this book to their list.
August 20, 2020
A good read with many different plot twists that I didn’t see coming. This a great read and I would highly recommend reading it.
November 21, 2020
4.5 stars.
Thanks Booktaster for this Indonesian-centred book. My home country. First time to find a book that story closely related to where I come from. Touching the main issue of my country and displayed every details of our city life and culture. I bet the writer spent a quiet amount time in Jakarta to know this much.
And now to the story. Very intriguing because of the terrorist issue is the REAL issue. Extremist and fanatics are the source of bombings in my country alone. Kill the 'kafir' was and still is their main purpose. And the book catch the whole complex situation. The fear and the confusion they spread felt real and told very neatly. Eventhough the ending was like every action movie out there.
For Sam character. For me, she's not realy my kinda girl. Eventho she's a hardworker and apparently brilliant in her job, she's gullible, whiny and obviously can't stand for herself. Bella on the other side is strong, independent woman and her judgement is proven solid. And thank the author Bella has better ending.
Ps: Josef is hardly muslim's name. Yusuf is.
Recomended.
Thanks Booktaster for this Indonesian-centred book. My home country. First time to find a book that story closely related to where I come from. Touching the main issue of my country and displayed every details of our city life and culture. I bet the writer spent a quiet amount time in Jakarta to know this much.
And now to the story. Very intriguing because of the terrorist issue is the REAL issue. Extremist and fanatics are the source of bombings in my country alone. Kill the 'kafir' was and still is their main purpose. And the book catch the whole complex situation. The fear and the confusion they spread felt real and told very neatly. Eventhough the ending was like every action movie out there.
For Sam character. For me, she's not realy my kinda girl. Eventho she's a hardworker and apparently brilliant in her job, she's gullible, whiny and obviously can't stand for herself. Bella on the other side is strong, independent woman and her judgement is proven solid. And thank the author Bella has better ending.
Ps: Josef is hardly muslim's name. Yusuf is.
Recomended.
September 30, 2020
Spoilers: The best way to describe Margaret Lomas's novel, The Network is Bridget Jones Vs. ISIS. To paraphrase the old Reese's Peanut Butter Cups commercials: "Hey you got Espionage in my Chick Lit.* "Well you got Chick Lit in my Espionage."
The book starts out as a chick lit about a woman coming off a dead end job and bad relationship to embrace a new exciting life in another country as an on air reporter. She has the supportive best friend and the dalliances with Mr. Right who turns out to be Mr. Wrong. But then the book goes from Helen Fielding to Tom Clancy in less than sixty pages. The woman then finds herself in the middle of international intrigue and becomes the target of a terrorist organization.
There are many ways that mixing light hearted comedy with espionage wouldn't work, but somehow in this case it does. Among the reasons that it works is because Lomas creates an effective lead who is well meaning, but awkward and is caught in a genuinely terrifying situation.
Samantha "Sam" Cannon is an Australian woman who longs to be a serious journalist. Unfortunately, she is stuck reporting on human interest stories for Australian Television, such as the farmer with the biggest potato or the newest baby animal at the zoo. Her one success story was exposing an MP who was caught using funds to pay for his affair with an exotic dancer, but that brief flame flickered as quickly as her relationship with her boyfriend, Ryan. Speaking of Ryan, Sam catches him in bed with another woman when he's supposed to be with his mother. Her going nowhere job and break up are enough to make her want to start over.
Her loyal and worldly friend, Bella talks Sam into applying for an on-site reporter position in Jakarta, Indonesia. She does and gets the job. She instantly clicks in her new surroundings, enjoys Jakartan life, befriends her welcoming colleagues, and obtains a new love interest in Jase, a fellow Australian transplanted to Indonesia. However, Sam doesn't like Jase's friend, Arwan. He is intrusive, pushy, chauvinistic, and horns in on her and Jade's dates. Not only that but Jase constantly defers to Arwan.
Aside from the difficulties between her, Jase, and Arwan, Sam thrives at her job. Even before she moved to Jakarta, she exhibited a keen sense of observation and journalistic sense. With the Exotic Dancer story, she follows a lead by contacting another dancer with whom sh had a previous acquaintanship when Sam worked as a barista. In Jakarta, she lands a plum interview with a female politician and becomes interesting in covering the lives of young Indonesians whether they will follow old traditions or make new ones.
Another reason that The Network worls is that the espionage plot is genuinely suspenseful with the tense situations and the minds of the terrorists who we don't empathize with but understand why they would choose such a violent path. We also become interested in Sam's involvement with them because she acts like normal people would in such a situation. She witnesses a shakedown and covers it for a story. She happens to be in a club when a bomb goes off. Her despair is clearly felt as she learns that one of her friends had died.
She also has some awkward moments such as trusting the wrong people, revealing too much, or being caught alone with the enemy. She is not a Super Woman, she is Every Woman.
We also get some interesting insights into the terrorist organization and how they operate. While some writing veers towards uncomfortable stereotyping, their motives are made clear. One of the characters is given a backstory that does not absolve him of his destructive acts but puts them in a context that makes sense to his character.
The title, The Network is a double meaning. It refers to the television news network in which Sam works and the terrorist network that commits mass murder. Cleverly, Lomas builds a network between two genres they usually don't cross but this time they do and do it well.
January 24, 2021
Sam Canon is an aspiring journalist stuck in a lacklustre job. When an opportunity comes up to live and work in Jakarta she jumps at the chance. Exciting people, an interesting culture and compelling news stories drive the narrative and carry the reader along with Sam.
There's a lot to enjoy in this book. Sam is endearing though very naive while her friend Bella is loving but abrasive and their chemistry is the heart of this story.
The spleen of course, is the undercurrent of deceit and terror surrounding Sam and the beautiful country of Indonesia itself.
Mysteries are generally of two types, you figure out the bad guy and wait impatiently for the author to show their hand or you wrack your brains and try not to peek at the last page. This book has the distinction of staying in the middle; you know someone's a Bad'un but you're still floored at how it's played out.
0verall a very enjoyable read.
There's a lot to enjoy in this book. Sam is endearing though very naive while her friend Bella is loving but abrasive and their chemistry is the heart of this story.
The spleen of course, is the undercurrent of deceit and terror surrounding Sam and the beautiful country of Indonesia itself.
Mysteries are generally of two types, you figure out the bad guy and wait impatiently for the author to show their hand or you wrack your brains and try not to peek at the last page. This book has the distinction of staying in the middle; you know someone's a Bad'un but you're still floored at how it's played out.
0verall a very enjoyable read.
October 31, 2020
The Network by Margaret Lomas is story that keeps the reader entertained.
Here The Network has many meanings that the reader can interpret as per the situation and perspective. After a heartbreak and a worthless job, Sam Canon arrives in Jakarta to prove her worth and get over a failed affair. Here both her personal and professional life take a turn for better or worse. She unknowingly also gets embroiled in some actions that threaten her and her friends' lives. Her life love friendship are all tested and betrayal again lurks around the corner. But who is the real culprit. A slow starter that very soon turns in to a a gripping thriller . Vivid descriptions of Jakarta are a added bonus.
A much recommended book
Thanks @BookTasters for this great book
Here The Network has many meanings that the reader can interpret as per the situation and perspective. After a heartbreak and a worthless job, Sam Canon arrives in Jakarta to prove her worth and get over a failed affair. Here both her personal and professional life take a turn for better or worse. She unknowingly also gets embroiled in some actions that threaten her and her friends' lives. Her life love friendship are all tested and betrayal again lurks around the corner. But who is the real culprit. A slow starter that very soon turns in to a a gripping thriller . Vivid descriptions of Jakarta are a added bonus.
A much recommended book
Thanks @BookTasters for this great book
July 18, 2021
As a film buff and amateur filmmaker myself, I feel this book is best comparable to the work of writer/director Adam Wingard. It's clearly the work of a professional with some knowledge and experience and even some good moments or complexities that you would expect from a very talented worker. However, they also fall for a lot of the same holes that amateur writers do.
I pass this off as Margaret Lomas' first major fiction novel and an experiment. Despite the fact that I really didn't enjoy this book, twist and all, I wouldn't tell Mrs Lomas that they shouldn't keep writing. I think in a couple of decades they'll be writing high-quality work!.
If I may demonstrate my point, in the first chapter there's a moment when the character Sam drops her mascara out of her handbag.
"She dropped down onto the pavement and upended her bag. A mascara tube escaped and rolled down the path as she picked through the mess. Through the dark curtain of her hair, she spotted the glint of the plastic pass and pulled it from the rubble, peeling off two post-it notes stuck to the surface. Retrieving the mascara from the gutter, Sam shovelled her belongings back into the bag, then stood up, repositioned the strap over her shoulder, shook her head to clear the hair from her face, straightened her skirt and swiped the pass."
I get that Lomas feels the need to add in as much detail and fill in this world, but here is just an excessive level of detail that you can expect from a High School student forced to write a creative essay for English. I would know, I did the same thing. It may seem like a slight nit-pick, even if it was consistent throughout the novel. But imagine the character's movements, stopping in the street, to pull out her security pass. That's fine - scrambling to grab the pass in the bag while running to work - no worries there. But why mention her hair? To show her superficiality? Probably. But it slows the pace and causes the reader to lose interest.
This book is better written as a basis to a film, with the use of details that don't add very much to the book except to disrupt the flow. I get the author is writing down everything as they imagine it playing out in their mind. But it's important that they know that you don't need to fill the book with so many redundant information. Let the words display your character's behaviours, emotions, yada yada. Books are a written medium after all. Sentence structure is just as important as detail.
I pass this off as Margaret Lomas' first major fiction novel and an experiment. Despite the fact that I really didn't enjoy this book, twist and all, I wouldn't tell Mrs Lomas that they shouldn't keep writing. I think in a couple of decades they'll be writing high-quality work!.
If I may demonstrate my point, in the first chapter there's a moment when the character Sam drops her mascara out of her handbag.
"She dropped down onto the pavement and upended her bag. A mascara tube escaped and rolled down the path as she picked through the mess. Through the dark curtain of her hair, she spotted the glint of the plastic pass and pulled it from the rubble, peeling off two post-it notes stuck to the surface. Retrieving the mascara from the gutter, Sam shovelled her belongings back into the bag, then stood up, repositioned the strap over her shoulder, shook her head to clear the hair from her face, straightened her skirt and swiped the pass."
I get that Lomas feels the need to add in as much detail and fill in this world, but here is just an excessive level of detail that you can expect from a High School student forced to write a creative essay for English. I would know, I did the same thing. It may seem like a slight nit-pick, even if it was consistent throughout the novel. But imagine the character's movements, stopping in the street, to pull out her security pass. That's fine - scrambling to grab the pass in the bag while running to work - no worries there. But why mention her hair? To show her superficiality? Probably. But it slows the pace and causes the reader to lose interest.
This book is better written as a basis to a film, with the use of details that don't add very much to the book except to disrupt the flow. I get the author is writing down everything as they imagine it playing out in their mind. But it's important that they know that you don't need to fill the book with so many redundant information. Let the words display your character's behaviours, emotions, yada yada. Books are a written medium after all. Sentence structure is just as important as detail.
November 6, 2020
The Network is Australian author Margaret Lomas's first work of fiction. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this entertaining book; a combination romance / thriller. Sam Canon is a young lady trying to find her way in the news industry. She is a junior writer for an Australian news agency, somewhat bored with her work, involved in a relationship with Ryan. She has success with one story but her job has stagnated. When her relationship breaks up, her best friend, Bella, helps her find a job that will change her life; working in Indonesia for a small but more impactful news service.
Sam is a smart, beautiful, young woman but at the same time filled with self-doubt. This is reflected in her need to have someone in her life, first Ryan, who breaks her heart and then in Indonesia, Jase, a handsome man who fills her life with hope, love, but, at the same time, feelings of uncertainty and despair. Sam's job at CNB fills her with excitement and hope that she will be able to translate it into the career in international journalism that she has dreamed of. She loves the new life she finds in Jakarta, a city teeming with people, poverty but also opportunity and life.
While Sam works on stories that she hopes to develop into powerful stories, there is also an undercurrent in this story of uncertainty (confusion about Jase's feelings and his reactions to his friend Arwan), danger (Muslim fanatics). It all makes for a fascinating, entertaining story, which develops nicely and then just sort of takes off with an exciting ending.
I must say I really liked Margaret Lomas' writing style, clear, descriptive and flowing. The characters were all well-developed, each filled with strengths and weaknesses. The description of life in Jakarta was fascinating and the food even made me hungry. Sam is an interesting character, sometimes frustrating, but also imaginative and strong. Her team at CNB, while not fleshed out in too great detail, work with her effectively and as a closely knit family. Jase is a complex character and Sam's childhood friend, Bella, is a source of strength and also provides a splash of reality to Sam. All in all, it was an entertaining story. I had it sort of sussed out, I think, but it didn't matter as the tension held me to the very end. Great first story. (4 stars)
Sam is a smart, beautiful, young woman but at the same time filled with self-doubt. This is reflected in her need to have someone in her life, first Ryan, who breaks her heart and then in Indonesia, Jase, a handsome man who fills her life with hope, love, but, at the same time, feelings of uncertainty and despair. Sam's job at CNB fills her with excitement and hope that she will be able to translate it into the career in international journalism that she has dreamed of. She loves the new life she finds in Jakarta, a city teeming with people, poverty but also opportunity and life.
While Sam works on stories that she hopes to develop into powerful stories, there is also an undercurrent in this story of uncertainty (confusion about Jase's feelings and his reactions to his friend Arwan), danger (Muslim fanatics). It all makes for a fascinating, entertaining story, which develops nicely and then just sort of takes off with an exciting ending.
I must say I really liked Margaret Lomas' writing style, clear, descriptive and flowing. The characters were all well-developed, each filled with strengths and weaknesses. The description of life in Jakarta was fascinating and the food even made me hungry. Sam is an interesting character, sometimes frustrating, but also imaginative and strong. Her team at CNB, while not fleshed out in too great detail, work with her effectively and as a closely knit family. Jase is a complex character and Sam's childhood friend, Bella, is a source of strength and also provides a splash of reality to Sam. All in all, it was an entertaining story. I had it sort of sussed out, I think, but it didn't matter as the tension held me to the very end. Great first story. (4 stars)
October 8, 2020
I received a copy of the book in exchange for a free review so thank you!
This book is not one that I would usually read but it was offered to me and the plot was intriguing despite the genre. That said, I really did enjoy it. The book was well written with smooth prose that allowed me to keep up with the story. The dialogue was consistent and a nice change to what I usually read. The plot was good with twists and turns that wanted me to keep reading. I liked Sam, the main character. Her journey was fun to follow and I liked the decisions she made as they were well thought out instead of just blindly following.
I have to give this book five stars as I enjoyed it and I didn't think I would.
This book is not one that I would usually read but it was offered to me and the plot was intriguing despite the genre. That said, I really did enjoy it. The book was well written with smooth prose that allowed me to keep up with the story. The dialogue was consistent and a nice change to what I usually read. The plot was good with twists and turns that wanted me to keep reading. I liked Sam, the main character. Her journey was fun to follow and I liked the decisions she made as they were well thought out instead of just blindly following.
I have to give this book five stars as I enjoyed it and I didn't think I would.
May 31, 2021
Well Well Well, first of all thankyou BOOKTASTERS for giving me an opportunity to read this amazing piece of writing. The Story is very engaging, how can it not be it's of a journalist. Margaret Lomas hits off with a suspenseful prologue, and the fabrication of the story keeps on getting twisty. These Plot twists make this a more interesting and engaging read. How a Terrorist organization works?, How the so called accidents are planned?, How Journalism works? The sacrifices, the struggle, everything is available in this book. The drama, and the thrill of being chased by Terrorists, and the tactics reporters follow to lure them in are brilliantly written.
The book is easy to read, understand and amazing too. This is a typical Postmodern novel with simple language and clear sentences. The story is not fast paced, but actually takes you through everything gradually. It was exciting :)
The book is easy to read, understand and amazing too. This is a typical Postmodern novel with simple language and clear sentences. The story is not fast paced, but actually takes you through everything gradually. It was exciting :)
June 6, 2020
An intriguing and unpredictable journo story with a couple of unimagined twists & outcomes. The first few chapters I thought well, here is another journo story where journo leaves, starts afresh elsewhere & gets too attached to new place to leave when it's time to. But, I was wrong 😅😅. The story line introduces religion & its extremism vs evolution dynamics which is an interesting topic in today's world. I loved that the story is relevant & relatable. And yeaah, everyone needs a Bella in their lives😜. A sequel maybe🤔🤔, so we fully exhaust the Jakarta plot 😉
October 13, 2023
“while she may have sorted out her job, her part in relationships hadn’t undergone the same overhaul. She had again begun a relationship where she was almost a mute participant, expecting the other person to make the decisions, create the conversations, formulate the fun. It wasn’t fair to Jase, and it wasn’t fair to her.” ( chapter 14 ,page 111)
Basically sums up the whole protagonist but.. where do i begin? IF you’d like sappy, brooding yet girl boss trope protagonists this book is for you. if you’d like a flawed character that is just a tad interesting that a piece of cardboard THEN this book is not for you,which is a fortunate, really. But.. where do i begin? Samantha aka Sam; wake up and smell the coffee you fossil. Finally BFF dearest comes to the in dire rescue which is very needed in the beginning of the story.
“Indonesia would have been the last place on her list. It was the tropics, for a start, and Sam didn’t like hot weather. It made her feel dull and sleepy, unable to think straight. And, from the little she knew of Jakarta, it was dusty, dirty and teeming with humanity. If she was asked to pick twenty places she would like to live, Jakarta would most likely be number 200.” ( Chapter 7, page 47)
Let’s say we’re on a good start, there she goes to the wreak havoc known as Jakarta. vivid description of Tropical humid weather that’ll keep you fanning most of the day yet you’ll still sweat like a swine. the traffic, honking horns back and forth, an accurate portrayal on my book. not the yelling though , that’s for the bus terminal not the airport. why the driver should be Balinese ‘Madhe’? Indonesia doesn’t consist of Bali only you know. A cookie cutter expat where she got way respect than in her own country, pretty accurate in my opinion. the bombs era, where every hotel is in fear of being blitzed and every man’s car hood is being checked. Always coca cola she met a man, and Bella sure thing entrains a “get a grip” talk to Sam ( which is really needed in order to save this story from an apocalypse at this point). Anyways, new bae in town, Jase. Australian Bloke, split personality.
Next, The big break interview with the bomber and some founders of organization that combines both Islam as a religion and woman trying to find a common ground as living in a regime with their own set of norms and values which to be frank it’s an interesting topic to write about yet, more of that please instead of a soul searching quest for a lad to warm up the sack. ok? As the story progresses, more threats the offspring of the head of a militant organization graces his presence in TV stations, everyone gets agitated. several days later a joint task force raids some of the affiliated apartment buildings. judging by Sam’s choice of company, she got to be a tad bit suspicious of this bloke and his friend Arwan. what is it about him that makes him turn 180? that’s a million dollar question.
Throughout the second half of the story, the tension picks up. Bombings at the largest shopping town in Jakarta happened, Sam saw Arwan eyeing at his “handiwork” whilst she’s reporting on site though it doesn’t strike me that he’s involved in the bombings itself.
Two things that surprises me. Jace aka Jasar is the perp. I kinda knew this but yet at the same time can’t believe how oblivious our beloved protagonist can be, just unbelievable at this stage of the story. and the second one, Arwan is an undercover cop/fed?
It comes together like a puzzle, really. Yet, anger mixed with radical values can be a recipe for eliminating people that has different beliefs than the perpetrator is. Though a more thorough background story will be great yet, it just sprung out of nowhere like all of a sudden there is this bio data like of passage that shows how he’d be a terrorist yes as a reader i can figure it out but instead of tell maybe more a show may enhance the overall back story of this vile human being.
Being a non fiction writer dippping into fiction her writings adequate BUT, the protagonist is just too darn insufferable. character driven throughout the novel, it is quite slow paced in some ways ( dragged out to be exact) yet as the story progresses, though it does not drag as much but it spoon feds you instead of prompting the readers on placing their thinking caps on. Just a thought if you’d like to dip on your toes on fiction.
“Arwan had saved her. Arwan, who she had grown to hate. She had doubted everything about him, and believed he was in her life to hurt her. He still had a lot to explain, but it was clear now that his presence in her life was for a far greater purpose than she realised. The man who she thought stood in the way of her happiness was just in time to save her from the ultimate fate – death at the hands of a madman.” ( Chapter 41, page 297)
let’s dive into this snippet. it’s a twist indeed. But what i’d like to emphasize is how one’s judgement & love clouded one’s perception of the truth. instincts were set on, but not as perceptive as the desired outcome ( sensing the danger but not the WHO and got everything puzzled up at the first place). what can be addressed here is time doesn’t elevate one’s intuition although it can alter one’s perception about a certain traumatic event, which occurred from start to finish.
In the end, terrorism is not a mere joke or a word in the dictionary. it is real as it can be from one era to the other. the hatred of tolerance, the absence of acceptance in certain militant groups sets civilization into a halt.
P.S : Thank you Booktaster for giving me a copy of this book & the chance on reviewing this book.
November 16, 2020
THE NETWORK: BOOK REVIEW
The Network is a romance mystery novel written by Margaret Lomas and released in 2019. The story starts with a prologue that shows us the main character, Sam in pain at the hospital. As we read further, we discover that Sam is a young journalist that is struggling with her job as a junior script writer at a company that she had dreamt of working at. Sam is introverted, hard working and determined to move further in her career. However, despite her efforts to read the news on television and grow in her career, the company she works at leaves her stagnant as a junior scriptwriter.
We read the story further and realise that Sam is working at her dream company, but not her dream job. Sam got her with the help of a former neighbour, Jack whom she had an embarrassing encounter with in front of her mail box. She told him about her career plans on the train and he put in a good word for her. Then there is the matter of Ryan, Sam’s boyfriend whom she is crazily in love with. Sam is co-dependent on her friend Bella and Ryan, but not so close to her father who fell into depression after her Mum’s death.
Sam is naive and trusting of people, so when she finds out that Ryan has been cheating on her she is devastated. She finds it difficult to cope with her work and so she calls her friend, Bella. Sam and Bella have been friends since they were young, despite having opposite personalities. Sam tells Bella about her problems and Bella offers to help her get a job, far away from her city and Ryan. Bella is surprised when Sam agrees to accept a job offer in far away Jakarta.
Indonesia proves to be good for Sam: the culture and lifestyle encourages a good work life balance. Sam goes from being the scriptwriter to a news reporter that can edit videos. Her colleagues are more or less family and together they explore the local cuisine. Sam meets Jase and before Bella could say jack, the two had begun a new relationship. Sam noticed that Jase’s friend, Arwan was present at almost all their dates. She disliked him immediately and focuses on bonding with Jase, despite her reservations on his personality and his behaviour around Jase.
Bella arrives in Indonesia and Sam discovers that her best friend hates her boyfriend. Sam tries to convince Bella otherwise, but Bella changes the topic. Sam finds out while investigating Arwan that he lied about his education, so she enlists the help of Bella. They both find out that Arwan has been lying and that Jase is also involved in terrorism. A bomb blast later, Sam discovers that Jase who took care of her in hospital after the bomb blast is linked with terrorism and he tries to kill her. Arwan saves her and she discovers that he is a secret agent. Arwan and Bella get close and are planning a wedding at the end.
The Network was an interesting read, with nice twists in it. However, the story is not too reflective of the cover and description: it is more of a romance novel than a mystery. However, I would give it a solid 6.5 out of 10 and recommend it to fans of romance that are seeking a little bit of mystery to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2020
I've been busy as a beaver, so it took me sometime to finish reading this novel, and I am totally going to resist the urge to give a spoiler in this review.
"The network" is the first work of fiction by a successful non-fiction, and best-selling author. Nevertheless, it's estimable by all standard. The title alludes that the novel will be hinged on the interconnection or affiliation between people, groups or entity; one could conceive the image of a web. It has quite a number of major and minor thematic concerns such as love, betrayal, friendship, and among others. The novel explores everyday sociocultural, and human relationships.
The fluid and elaborate plot, carefully interwoven into each other, spiral as the writer expertly explore the events that sum up this novel. Characterization (flat and round characters) is adequately done; the protagonist and the foil especially played a paramount role. The setting, among others, such as characters, are in stark contrast with each other, leaving one to conclude that the novel is a pure work of contrast. The writer clearly steer the plot from an omniscient point of view, sporadically injecting it with the thoughts of the characters. Her ingenuity in using flashback to drive the plot is commendable. The writer also uses a host of literary devices to tell the story. The novel is simple and easy to read and understand - her appropriate use of language and diction made sure of that. Conflict is the catalyst of the plot, stimulating the reader's interest until the resolution of the plot.
I find the the style a tad lucklustre, and that might be attributed to the e-book, pdf version of the novel I read, but the blank pages left between chapter-numbers and the opening line of every paragraph in every chapter, the blank pages left between every chapter, and the incongruent typesetting on each page took the wind out of my sail. It leaves the reader incessantly scrolling, and subsequently, destroying the beauty of an otherwise awesome book. Also, the PDF version of the book I read has no cover picture.
Moving on, I wasn't exactly proofreading, but i stumble across some typographical errors in chapter 5, pragrapgh 3, line 8: "...shell of a man of a man who, instead of carrying her on his shoulders..." And in Chapter 18, Paragraph 20, line 9: "...but to Sam is was cardboard in her mouth..." There is also a missplaced comma in chapter 29, paragraph 20, line 3: "...when I get back, if you’re up to, it let’s talk?" There may or may not be more.
Again, almost all chapters from the beginning are unsually lengthier than the succeding chapters - towards the end. It's gives the impression that the lengthy chapters are to make up for the short chapters, and leaves the reader wondering if the writer was in a hurry to conclude the story.
"The network" is a good literary work of fiction, and the first of many (I hope) to come. It would've been a 5-star rating for me, but because of the things that took the wind out of the sail for me, I'll give it a 4-star rating.
"The network" is the first work of fiction by a successful non-fiction, and best-selling author. Nevertheless, it's estimable by all standard. The title alludes that the novel will be hinged on the interconnection or affiliation between people, groups or entity; one could conceive the image of a web. It has quite a number of major and minor thematic concerns such as love, betrayal, friendship, and among others. The novel explores everyday sociocultural, and human relationships.
The fluid and elaborate plot, carefully interwoven into each other, spiral as the writer expertly explore the events that sum up this novel. Characterization (flat and round characters) is adequately done; the protagonist and the foil especially played a paramount role. The setting, among others, such as characters, are in stark contrast with each other, leaving one to conclude that the novel is a pure work of contrast. The writer clearly steer the plot from an omniscient point of view, sporadically injecting it with the thoughts of the characters. Her ingenuity in using flashback to drive the plot is commendable. The writer also uses a host of literary devices to tell the story. The novel is simple and easy to read and understand - her appropriate use of language and diction made sure of that. Conflict is the catalyst of the plot, stimulating the reader's interest until the resolution of the plot.
I find the the style a tad lucklustre, and that might be attributed to the e-book, pdf version of the novel I read, but the blank pages left between chapter-numbers and the opening line of every paragraph in every chapter, the blank pages left between every chapter, and the incongruent typesetting on each page took the wind out of my sail. It leaves the reader incessantly scrolling, and subsequently, destroying the beauty of an otherwise awesome book. Also, the PDF version of the book I read has no cover picture.
Moving on, I wasn't exactly proofreading, but i stumble across some typographical errors in chapter 5, pragrapgh 3, line 8: "...shell of a man of a man who, instead of carrying her on his shoulders..." And in Chapter 18, Paragraph 20, line 9: "...but to Sam is was cardboard in her mouth..." There is also a missplaced comma in chapter 29, paragraph 20, line 3: "...when I get back, if you’re up to, it let’s talk?" There may or may not be more.
Again, almost all chapters from the beginning are unsually lengthier than the succeding chapters - towards the end. It's gives the impression that the lengthy chapters are to make up for the short chapters, and leaves the reader wondering if the writer was in a hurry to conclude the story.
"The network" is a good literary work of fiction, and the first of many (I hope) to come. It would've been a 5-star rating for me, but because of the things that took the wind out of the sail for me, I'll give it a 4-star rating.
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October 6, 2020What a superb yet naive flow of knowledge from the author. I'm really impressed by the display of behavioral psychology in the book generally- learnt a lot of new words and more.
Even though the author did apologized Incase of any conflict of interest from the beginning of the book, I am really disappointed in her gullible perspective about Islam and Culture. The Author needs to understand the fact that - Islam is a perfect religion for imperfect followers. The fact that a muslim went wrong (Jumps into terrorism) does not paint Islam in anyway- it is just a terrible act done by a human being out of selfish interest, just as a terrific act from a person of different believe doesn't justify his religion in anyway If justice is the common ground we all speak from. Psychopath disorder doesn’t have neither a religion nor Culture.
However, I must say, the author did showed some elements of knowledge of diversity but unfortunately driven by superiority complex - taking references from inferiority complex driven set of Culturally oppressed women. Islam and culture are two worlds apart. Any muslim woman that feels oppressed should check back into history of her culture - rest assured, she'd find answers right in there. I am personally a product of an oppressing culture which we're ever determined to fight for our rights - because we see things from a justice point of view.
So, I strongly suggest that the author should polish her research skills. If she wishes to speak about Islam, let her be one first or at the least research in depth. If she really meant to help speak out for oppressed women like us - she should look into Cultures - because in reality, Islam brought ease for women from all those inhumanly practices. Islam isn't the enemy, culture is.
One of the last advice of the holy prophet of Islam was " I'm warning you against women, treat them with kindness". So how on earth would a religion that really is against maltreatment sets rules that oppresses. Get to sit with an honest Arab who's knowledgeable about history and ask him about the life of women before and after Islam - you'll surely break out of those widely spread propagandas.
However, the author sounds Judgmental. Is she trying to tell the world how oppression has led to indecency among muslim women or what? Is she trying to advocate indecency as a way forward for any oppressed person? It's as if we're contradicting ourselves- preaching about human rights. Whereas the real human right should be - a free world where no one speaks for everyone. Muslims should be allowed to speak for themselves likewise Christians and other religions. Thanks to Sustainable Goal number 16 - peace and justice strong institutions. Most of us feel oppressed from cultural practices but we refuse to speak from emotional point of view, looking around for a scapegoat.
Lastly, I strongly apologize if any of my points hits a bone. Thanks for the great piece of work 👍🏼
Even though the author did apologized Incase of any conflict of interest from the beginning of the book, I am really disappointed in her gullible perspective about Islam and Culture. The Author needs to understand the fact that - Islam is a perfect religion for imperfect followers. The fact that a muslim went wrong (Jumps into terrorism) does not paint Islam in anyway- it is just a terrible act done by a human being out of selfish interest, just as a terrific act from a person of different believe doesn't justify his religion in anyway If justice is the common ground we all speak from. Psychopath disorder doesn’t have neither a religion nor Culture.
However, I must say, the author did showed some elements of knowledge of diversity but unfortunately driven by superiority complex - taking references from inferiority complex driven set of Culturally oppressed women. Islam and culture are two worlds apart. Any muslim woman that feels oppressed should check back into history of her culture - rest assured, she'd find answers right in there. I am personally a product of an oppressing culture which we're ever determined to fight for our rights - because we see things from a justice point of view.
So, I strongly suggest that the author should polish her research skills. If she wishes to speak about Islam, let her be one first or at the least research in depth. If she really meant to help speak out for oppressed women like us - she should look into Cultures - because in reality, Islam brought ease for women from all those inhumanly practices. Islam isn't the enemy, culture is.
One of the last advice of the holy prophet of Islam was " I'm warning you against women, treat them with kindness". So how on earth would a religion that really is against maltreatment sets rules that oppresses. Get to sit with an honest Arab who's knowledgeable about history and ask him about the life of women before and after Islam - you'll surely break out of those widely spread propagandas.
However, the author sounds Judgmental. Is she trying to tell the world how oppression has led to indecency among muslim women or what? Is she trying to advocate indecency as a way forward for any oppressed person? It's as if we're contradicting ourselves- preaching about human rights. Whereas the real human right should be - a free world where no one speaks for everyone. Muslims should be allowed to speak for themselves likewise Christians and other religions. Thanks to Sustainable Goal number 16 - peace and justice strong institutions. Most of us feel oppressed from cultural practices but we refuse to speak from emotional point of view, looking around for a scapegoat.
Lastly, I strongly apologize if any of my points hits a bone. Thanks for the great piece of work 👍🏼
October 3, 2023
A book about journalism, terrorism and romance!
Sam is naive and a hopeless romantic, falling easily for any man that shows her charm and kindness, which brings her a great amount of heart break especially with her latest relationship, hence leading her to move her work to Jakarta for a fresh start as a News Reporter. A job that Sam has been dreaming of since she was a kid. However, her new job have her meddling into dangerous territory, and she might not make it out alive.
💭My thoughts as a reader:
The story went through a good start with a good amount of questions and confusions, showing us what have had happened before going back to the beginning. The premise was interesting- a story about a journalist who got caught up in terrorist attacks. Despite already guessing the plot twist, it was still enjoyable and had me on the edge of my seat screaming for Sam to GET OUT NOW. I enjoyed how descriptive the writer writes, telling in great details on Indonesia and journalism, showing how much effort the writer took on her research. It helps immerse readers into the world of journalism and the richness of Indonesian culture as well.
However, there are certain parts that made me rate this book a 3 stars. Being descriptive has its drawbacks, as I feel a lot of the content can be cut out or left out of the story to focus on the important plot and creating more suspense. I know that the writer wants to show the progress of the character’s personality and thoughts (something which I love reading in Japanese lit), however the writing becomes repetitive especially when ellaborating about Sam and Bella and their differences and Sam’s heart break. Adding with many things that are overexplained made the story longer that it needed to be with nothing interesting going on for the first half of the book. In my opinion, opting for the ‘show, don’t tell’ style in some parts of the book will make it much more interesting to read.
💭My thought as a Muslim:
I know the author wants to highlight on the extreme muslims that become terrorists. Yet I feel like the usage of our zikr by the terrorist can be misjudged since a lot of normal muslims also use it. I would like to intepret the villain in this book as someone who thinks that they are above others in their faith to god, yet blinded to the sins they commit as they live the life of non muslims with the adultery and alcohol drinks that are prohibited in Islam. Lastly I want to emphasize what has already been said in the book; that Islam is peace and real muslims want peace, and I hope that people understands that Islam is not oppressive and does not opress women. The culture does.
I would like to thank Booktasters and the writer for letting me read this book as an exchange for an honest review. With the passion that she puts on writing this boook, I believe that Margaret Lomas has the growth to be a great fiction writer!
Sam is naive and a hopeless romantic, falling easily for any man that shows her charm and kindness, which brings her a great amount of heart break especially with her latest relationship, hence leading her to move her work to Jakarta for a fresh start as a News Reporter. A job that Sam has been dreaming of since she was a kid. However, her new job have her meddling into dangerous territory, and she might not make it out alive.
💭My thoughts as a reader:
The story went through a good start with a good amount of questions and confusions, showing us what have had happened before going back to the beginning. The premise was interesting- a story about a journalist who got caught up in terrorist attacks. Despite already guessing the plot twist, it was still enjoyable and had me on the edge of my seat screaming for Sam to GET OUT NOW. I enjoyed how descriptive the writer writes, telling in great details on Indonesia and journalism, showing how much effort the writer took on her research. It helps immerse readers into the world of journalism and the richness of Indonesian culture as well.
However, there are certain parts that made me rate this book a 3 stars. Being descriptive has its drawbacks, as I feel a lot of the content can be cut out or left out of the story to focus on the important plot and creating more suspense. I know that the writer wants to show the progress of the character’s personality and thoughts (something which I love reading in Japanese lit), however the writing becomes repetitive especially when ellaborating about Sam and Bella and their differences and Sam’s heart break. Adding with many things that are overexplained made the story longer that it needed to be with nothing interesting going on for the first half of the book. In my opinion, opting for the ‘show, don’t tell’ style in some parts of the book will make it much more interesting to read.
💭My thought as a Muslim:
I know the author wants to highlight on the extreme muslims that become terrorists. Yet I feel like the usage of our zikr by the terrorist can be misjudged since a lot of normal muslims also use it. I would like to intepret the villain in this book as someone who thinks that they are above others in their faith to god, yet blinded to the sins they commit as they live the life of non muslims with the adultery and alcohol drinks that are prohibited in Islam. Lastly I want to emphasize what has already been said in the book; that Islam is peace and real muslims want peace, and I hope that people understands that Islam is not oppressive and does not opress women. The culture does.
I would like to thank Booktasters and the writer for letting me read this book as an exchange for an honest review. With the passion that she puts on writing this boook, I believe that Margaret Lomas has the growth to be a great fiction writer!
April 4, 2023
En esta historia conocemos a Sam una periodista que tenia una buena vida hasta que todo sale mal, así que motivada a cambiar y seguir adelante toma una oportunidad de trabajo en otra ciudad donde conocerá gente nueva e incluso volverá a encontrar el amor, sin embargo no todo le sale a la perfección pues también encuentra muchos secretos y peligros que necesita investigar para descubrir toda la verdad.
En general el libro me gusto, si se nota que es la primer novela de la autora sin embargo sabe desarrollar la historia para que sea entretenida y llamativa, se vuelve una historia amena, fácil de leer y los personajes me gustan sobre todo Bella, la amiga de la protagonista siento que es el mejor y mas real de todos los personajes, el tema del periodismo también es muy interesante y lo sabe manejar bien.
Lo poco que no me gusto es que hubo secciones con muchas descripciones que siento pudieron ser menores, también siento que al hablar del Islam pudo manejarse mejor y en lo personal sentí que no llegue a conectar con la protagonista que le faltaba esencia.
Agradezco a Booktasters y a la autora por la copia digital del libro para esta colaboración. 💖
In this story we meet Sam, a journalist who had a good life until everything went wrong, so motivated to change and move on, she takes a job opportunity in another city where she will meet new people and even find love again, however she doesn't everything goes perfectly for him because he also finds many secrets and dangers that he needs to investigate to discover the whole truth.
In general, I liked the book, if you notice that it is the author's first novel, however, she knows how to develop the story so that it is entertaining and striking, it becomes a pleasant story, easy to read and I like the characters above all Bella, the I feel that the protagonist's friend is the best and most real of all the characters, the issue of journalism is also very interesting and she knows how to handle it well.
The little that I did not like is that there were sections with many descriptions that I feel could have been minor, I also feel that when talking about Islam it could be handled better and personally I felt that I did not connect with the protagonist who lacked essence.
I thank Booktasters and the author for the digital copy of the book for this collaboration. 💖
En general el libro me gusto, si se nota que es la primer novela de la autora sin embargo sabe desarrollar la historia para que sea entretenida y llamativa, se vuelve una historia amena, fácil de leer y los personajes me gustan sobre todo Bella, la amiga de la protagonista siento que es el mejor y mas real de todos los personajes, el tema del periodismo también es muy interesante y lo sabe manejar bien.
Lo poco que no me gusto es que hubo secciones con muchas descripciones que siento pudieron ser menores, también siento que al hablar del Islam pudo manejarse mejor y en lo personal sentí que no llegue a conectar con la protagonista que le faltaba esencia.
Agradezco a Booktasters y a la autora por la copia digital del libro para esta colaboración. 💖
In this story we meet Sam, a journalist who had a good life until everything went wrong, so motivated to change and move on, she takes a job opportunity in another city where she will meet new people and even find love again, however she doesn't everything goes perfectly for him because he also finds many secrets and dangers that he needs to investigate to discover the whole truth.
In general, I liked the book, if you notice that it is the author's first novel, however, she knows how to develop the story so that it is entertaining and striking, it becomes a pleasant story, easy to read and I like the characters above all Bella, the I feel that the protagonist's friend is the best and most real of all the characters, the issue of journalism is also very interesting and she knows how to handle it well.
The little that I did not like is that there were sections with many descriptions that I feel could have been minor, I also feel that when talking about Islam it could be handled better and personally I felt that I did not connect with the protagonist who lacked essence.
I thank Booktasters and the author for the digital copy of the book for this collaboration. 💖
March 22, 2021
First of all, I owe the author and Booktaster an apology for doing this review so late. When I first read the summary of the book, I got hooked as it mentioned about journalism. Sharing the same dream as the main character, I too wanted to be a great journalist whereby I cover interesting and breaking news to the public. The entire book really resonates well with my personal experience and the adrenaline in each plot really got me wondering if the author actually read my mind or live my life. It is a tough time for journalism to work and cover stories as bold as the story mentioned at the place where I came from and I must say 'losing interest', doubting ourselves on our capabilities is our common emotions at times that it is easier for us to give up the dreams. It is a tough job and it definitely require persistence, patience and passion.
Reading the book and the plot on journalism makes me realise why I wanted to be one again. It makes me remember something, a feeling, that I have forgotten. I would like to thanked the author for the opportunity and letting me reliive again those emotions, those adrenaline rush, those passion. It seems like the book is exactly what I need as a reminder when the days are down. I enjoyed the plot and story in a very personal level.
However, I am a bit sceptical on the way the book talk about Islam. If Jace was indeed an Islam and practicing the religion and towards the extremist for jihadist, it begs the question why would he do sexual intercause with Sam when it is prohibited unless they are married? This part to me seems like a misinterpretation of the religion and even if the lesson was to educate people more on Islam, I believe a clear warning should be given so that people would not misjudged the religion. If the extremist the author is aiming is the wrong side of Islam, I think it should be explained further.
Reading the book and the plot on journalism makes me realise why I wanted to be one again. It makes me remember something, a feeling, that I have forgotten. I would like to thanked the author for the opportunity and letting me reliive again those emotions, those adrenaline rush, those passion. It seems like the book is exactly what I need as a reminder when the days are down. I enjoyed the plot and story in a very personal level.
However, I am a bit sceptical on the way the book talk about Islam. If Jace was indeed an Islam and practicing the religion and towards the extremist for jihadist, it begs the question why would he do sexual intercause with Sam when it is prohibited unless they are married? This part to me seems like a misinterpretation of the religion and even if the lesson was to educate people more on Islam, I believe a clear warning should be given so that people would not misjudged the religion. If the extremist the author is aiming is the wrong side of Islam, I think it should be explained further.
December 3, 2020
❄️ The Network by Margaret Lomas
❄️ First of all, I wanted to thank @BookTasters via Twitter for being the bridge between me and the author, Ms. Margaret Lomas. Overall, I really enjoyed reading the book, but it took me a lot of time to read this book due to personal matters.
❄️ Whenever I read a book, I always want to see what’s the connection between the title and the overall plot of the novel.
❄️ This book started giving off those young adult/contemporary romance. A young woman named Samantha “Sam” Canon, an Australian, is an aspiring journalist. To me, she had a great start to her career, writing and reporting what’s going on in Australia, particularly, in the agriculture sector. Her biggest break in her career is when she exposes an MP who was caught using funds to pay for his affair with an exotic dancer. But everything dwindled down when she and Ryan broke up. Hence, she was assigned and forced to start a new life and career in Jakarta, Indonesia, where she meets Jase, a fellow Australian reporter and his pushy friend, Arwan.
❄️ Just when I thought that this is going to be another chick-lit, the author then surprises us about the espionage plot that’s filled with insights from the terrorists—how they operate and why they’re doing what they do.
❄️ In a very shrewd way, I’d say the author was able to connect everything—from the plot, to the characters and the title of the story. The Network could mean a lot of things. Some of it could be Sam’s connections, Sam’s workplace, the “network” of terrorists that suddenly makes a huge impact on everybody’s lives, and lastly, the network could also mean the bridge between the two different genres that the author had made.
❄️ 5/5 would recommend this book!
#YANovel #Romance #Thriller
❄️ First of all, I wanted to thank @BookTasters via Twitter for being the bridge between me and the author, Ms. Margaret Lomas. Overall, I really enjoyed reading the book, but it took me a lot of time to read this book due to personal matters.
❄️ Whenever I read a book, I always want to see what’s the connection between the title and the overall plot of the novel.
❄️ This book started giving off those young adult/contemporary romance. A young woman named Samantha “Sam” Canon, an Australian, is an aspiring journalist. To me, she had a great start to her career, writing and reporting what’s going on in Australia, particularly, in the agriculture sector. Her biggest break in her career is when she exposes an MP who was caught using funds to pay for his affair with an exotic dancer. But everything dwindled down when she and Ryan broke up. Hence, she was assigned and forced to start a new life and career in Jakarta, Indonesia, where she meets Jase, a fellow Australian reporter and his pushy friend, Arwan.
❄️ Just when I thought that this is going to be another chick-lit, the author then surprises us about the espionage plot that’s filled with insights from the terrorists—how they operate and why they’re doing what they do.
❄️ In a very shrewd way, I’d say the author was able to connect everything—from the plot, to the characters and the title of the story. The Network could mean a lot of things. Some of it could be Sam’s connections, Sam’s workplace, the “network” of terrorists that suddenly makes a huge impact on everybody’s lives, and lastly, the network could also mean the bridge between the two different genres that the author had made.
❄️ 5/5 would recommend this book!
#YANovel #Romance #Thriller
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2020
The Network is the story of a woman whom after a heartbreak, finds herself lost, hurt, downhearted and loses the excitement to living her life fully.
With the help of her best friend, she decides to make a drastic change in her life. She quits her job and moves to Indonesia — where her life unfolds in both a magical and drama-filled way. She finds love, happiness, freedom, excitement, success, purpose, and friendship. But all is not rosy as her life becomes suddenly full of twists and turns, some scary moments and disappointments.
The book is a page turner, interesting, suspense-filled, full of surprises. It touches on a wide variety of subjects such as love, friendship, relationships, terrorism, life of a journalist… it is full of unexpected events, keeps the reader wondering about what will happen next. It also has some hair-raising moments and sorrows. It is a book that is full of drama and action.
The writer tells the story vividly, one can clearly imagine the scenes as described and transports the reader inside the story effortlessly. The dialogues in the story between the characters are also so natural and it just flowed.
The story developed and progressed perfectly from start to a beautiful ending.
The author creatively put the appropriate number of characters in the book, each unique yet all come together to fit and complete the plot perfectly.
I enjoyed reading the book very much. Though I was anxious to see how the the story unfolds in the end, I wished to read it some more when it ended. It was certainly worth every minute of my time reading it.
With the help of her best friend, she decides to make a drastic change in her life. She quits her job and moves to Indonesia — where her life unfolds in both a magical and drama-filled way. She finds love, happiness, freedom, excitement, success, purpose, and friendship. But all is not rosy as her life becomes suddenly full of twists and turns, some scary moments and disappointments.
The book is a page turner, interesting, suspense-filled, full of surprises. It touches on a wide variety of subjects such as love, friendship, relationships, terrorism, life of a journalist… it is full of unexpected events, keeps the reader wondering about what will happen next. It also has some hair-raising moments and sorrows. It is a book that is full of drama and action.
The writer tells the story vividly, one can clearly imagine the scenes as described and transports the reader inside the story effortlessly. The dialogues in the story between the characters are also so natural and it just flowed.
The story developed and progressed perfectly from start to a beautiful ending.
The author creatively put the appropriate number of characters in the book, each unique yet all come together to fit and complete the plot perfectly.
I enjoyed reading the book very much. Though I was anxious to see how the the story unfolds in the end, I wished to read it some more when it ended. It was certainly worth every minute of my time reading it.
February 11, 2024
"For months she had been going through the motions of existing, gaining little pleasure from life, plodding a pathway that she chose because she was too afraid to take any further risks."
This depiction mirrors my own experience closely. I navigated a stagnant existence, devoid of joy, choosing a safe but uninspiring path. Thankfully, I've now found my way to a more fulfilling and authentic way of living.
Sam, a passionate reporter, embarks on a documentary about young Muslims in Indonesia, navigating challenges like workplace tension and high staff turnover. The narrative unfolds with insights into women's rights, religion, politics, and journalism, promoting a nuanced perspective. Strengths lie in advocating for gender equality and balancing tradition with modernity in the Muslim faith. However, weaknesses surface, hinting at political influence in infrastructure projects and workplace challenges compromising journalistic quality. Overall, the book provides a diverse lens on critical issues, urging objective evaluation while highlighting the importance of promoting equality, religious adaptability, and overcoming obstacles for improved journalism.
The storyline is compelling, but the predictable plot twist didn't capture my interest, given my familiarity with such twists. Despite being the author's initial venture into non-fiction, her writing is commendable, albeit with some inevitable errors. I'll probably reread the book in the future, hopeful that a second read might offer a fresh perspective.
This depiction mirrors my own experience closely. I navigated a stagnant existence, devoid of joy, choosing a safe but uninspiring path. Thankfully, I've now found my way to a more fulfilling and authentic way of living.
Sam, a passionate reporter, embarks on a documentary about young Muslims in Indonesia, navigating challenges like workplace tension and high staff turnover. The narrative unfolds with insights into women's rights, religion, politics, and journalism, promoting a nuanced perspective. Strengths lie in advocating for gender equality and balancing tradition with modernity in the Muslim faith. However, weaknesses surface, hinting at political influence in infrastructure projects and workplace challenges compromising journalistic quality. Overall, the book provides a diverse lens on critical issues, urging objective evaluation while highlighting the importance of promoting equality, religious adaptability, and overcoming obstacles for improved journalism.
The storyline is compelling, but the predictable plot twist didn't capture my interest, given my familiarity with such twists. Despite being the author's initial venture into non-fiction, her writing is commendable, albeit with some inevitable errors. I'll probably reread the book in the future, hopeful that a second read might offer a fresh perspective.
August 30, 2020
I was given a copy to review this book. Everything I write is my own opinion.
3/5 stars for a story that wasn´t bad. Actually, I liked it, but it has a problem: the main character, Sam, is needy. She can´t do anything without needing her friend Bella, a character I loved. The twist it had, wasn´t a twist for me. I saw it coming from the begining, and I don´t like that it was so predictable. But I enjoyed the story, despise Sam and being predictable. It is not complex, and is an easy reading.
Sam has always wanted to be an international reporter. She wants to become a good reporter, and create her stories. But her career isn´t going where she wants, and her relationship with Ryan ends up badly. Counseled by her friend Bella, she applies for a job in Jakarta and gets it. She starts a new life, and meets new people... and an interesting man, Jase. Her career is finally going where she has always wanted, and everything seems to be perfect. But everything changes in seconds.
As I said before, Sam is too needy. She is always asking Bella for help, and gets everything wrong. She can be very stupid, and that is a big NO-NO for a main character, in my opinion. Bella was a better character, I liked how caring she is with Sam, and how good her instincts are. I also liked Arwan and Jase, two very important characters that give the story a good push. It is because of the three characters I liked and that the story is entertaining that I give it 3 stars out of 5.
It is a nice and simple story. Enjoy it.
3/5 stars for a story that wasn´t bad. Actually, I liked it, but it has a problem: the main character, Sam, is needy. She can´t do anything without needing her friend Bella, a character I loved. The twist it had, wasn´t a twist for me. I saw it coming from the begining, and I don´t like that it was so predictable. But I enjoyed the story, despise Sam and being predictable. It is not complex, and is an easy reading.
Sam has always wanted to be an international reporter. She wants to become a good reporter, and create her stories. But her career isn´t going where she wants, and her relationship with Ryan ends up badly. Counseled by her friend Bella, she applies for a job in Jakarta and gets it. She starts a new life, and meets new people... and an interesting man, Jase. Her career is finally going where she has always wanted, and everything seems to be perfect. But everything changes in seconds.
As I said before, Sam is too needy. She is always asking Bella for help, and gets everything wrong. She can be very stupid, and that is a big NO-NO for a main character, in my opinion. Bella was a better character, I liked how caring she is with Sam, and how good her instincts are. I also liked Arwan and Jase, two very important characters that give the story a good push. It is because of the three characters I liked and that the story is entertaining that I give it 3 stars out of 5.
It is a nice and simple story. Enjoy it.
September 9, 2020
The story starts at a slower pace with the main protagonist (Samanth), Sam struggling with her stagnant career. But she is happy with everything in life and wasn't cribbing too much till the time she finds out about her boyfriend's deception. Sam decides to move to a new place, a new job and the story with many twists starts unfolding in the new place. Her best friend Bella helps her with this move.
The author has extensive knowledge about Jakarta and its culture. She has described it too vividly that the reader feels too familiar about this place. The author uses the religion, its extremism, and also the other side of that fanatism as the central element of the story, But her writing doesn't sway this side or the another but keeps the neutral stance to narrate the story from Sam's perspective. As the story unfolds, Sam just steals the reader's hearts through the turmoils in her life. Her struggles on the work front, and the love-lorn life. Bella's character has been projected as one of the strongest person, who tries to help her friend and take care of her. I guess everyone needs Bella in their life.
The plot gets thickening with so many twists and the last twist of the tale is in fact very interesting and was expected too. Can't wait to read the next part to cover more of Jakarta by Margaret.
Note: I got a free copy of this book in return for a review from Booktasters. and my thoughts are in no way influenced by this.
The author has extensive knowledge about Jakarta and its culture. She has described it too vividly that the reader feels too familiar about this place. The author uses the religion, its extremism, and also the other side of that fanatism as the central element of the story, But her writing doesn't sway this side or the another but keeps the neutral stance to narrate the story from Sam's perspective. As the story unfolds, Sam just steals the reader's hearts through the turmoils in her life. Her struggles on the work front, and the love-lorn life. Bella's character has been projected as one of the strongest person, who tries to help her friend and take care of her. I guess everyone needs Bella in their life.
The plot gets thickening with so many twists and the last twist of the tale is in fact very interesting and was expected too. Can't wait to read the next part to cover more of Jakarta by Margaret.
Note: I got a free copy of this book in return for a review from Booktasters. and my thoughts are in no way influenced by this.
September 24, 2020
Sam is a young journalist with big dreams. But when her heart was broken, she drown in pain and sorrows. A new hope shined over, when her close friend Bela found her a new job in Jakarta. The change was what Sam needed to heal and life started to smile again, with an amazing team that became more than just colleuges but family, she started what she always dreamed of reporting big stories that makes a difference and allow her to proceed in the world of journalism. Everything was going great with Sam until she met him then all things went crazy.
The auther presented different examples of women but no matter what race religion or peraonality all women want the same, a successful and happy life.
In general the female characters were interesting.. i would love to have a friend like Bela or boss like Kamala.
I wished if the writer mad an encounter between Rochim and Sam that would be very interesting. In general the men althgouh some were complicated character like Arwan and Jas but the others were so supporting even the taxi driver, which is quiet interesting side of the novel.
Note to the auther, she used the refliction to past events alot which a little mad me feel lost while reading.
I think the auther wanted to deliver message to the reader after every fall always get back to your feets and start over.
Hold on to your friends they are the plessings of life.
Thanks to the auther for the novel that gave me hope in the most time i needed it most
The auther presented different examples of women but no matter what race religion or peraonality all women want the same, a successful and happy life.
In general the female characters were interesting.. i would love to have a friend like Bela or boss like Kamala.
I wished if the writer mad an encounter between Rochim and Sam that would be very interesting. In general the men althgouh some were complicated character like Arwan and Jas but the others were so supporting even the taxi driver, which is quiet interesting side of the novel.
Note to the auther, she used the refliction to past events alot which a little mad me feel lost while reading.
I think the auther wanted to deliver message to the reader after every fall always get back to your feets and start over.
Hold on to your friends they are the plessings of life.
Thanks to the auther for the novel that gave me hope in the most time i needed it most
January 21, 2021
It is a monotonous novel, without many feelings or emotions, until you get to more than half of the book, when Sam's life in Jakarta changes dramatically and she gets involved in a job as a reporter that was her dream, but also faces dangers that made her think if it was necessary to continue with that work. In this case I don't have a favorite character, Sam the girl reporter and protagonist is very insecure in her personal life, her friend Bella is always her savior for everything but sometimes she does it with annoyance and the most interesting ones are Jase a very mysterious young man who has a very strange relationship with Sam, and Arwan, a young friend of Jase who gives the impression of being an aggressive person, but everything changes suddenly for all of them. So it's a novel just for adults, because it doesn't have impressive twists, nor is it a true love story or suspense, it's just a narrative.
I didn't like most of the story, because it’s simple and unemotional, it's repetitive about Sam's life but on the same topics, her work and her relationship with Jase, only gets exciting when the terrorist attacks start.
My favorite part was definitely the friendship that Sam and Bella have, even though they are completely different they’re very fond of each other. Finally, the rhythm of the book is a little slow, it gets desperate at times but after half of the book it manages to catch up with you. 3.5 stars
I didn't like most of the story, because it’s simple and unemotional, it's repetitive about Sam's life but on the same topics, her work and her relationship with Jase, only gets exciting when the terrorist attacks start.
My favorite part was definitely the friendship that Sam and Bella have, even though they are completely different they’re very fond of each other. Finally, the rhythm of the book is a little slow, it gets desperate at times but after half of the book it manages to catch up with you. 3.5 stars
February 10, 2021
I rarely rate books.
Overall the book was nice and quick to read language wise, but it depends on a reader, of course.
At first the timeline and story development was a bit confusing. I couldn't understand why we need this long flashbacks, they were confusing and felt unnecessary. The book itself couldn't catch my interest right away. First chapters didn't even give hint of being related to the brief description that was given in the book description. And I wondered what was the title, and did I read the right description. Maybe I have expected too much from the book.
The beginning of the story and the ending seemed totally different worlds and stories, which is actually not bad thing, maybe that was intended that way. In some cases it's too jumpy from one part to another, it feels like important part of the story left untold, which would explain the current story. Some parts/ideas/passages felt unfinished. Some passages seemed too long, too descriptive and unnecessary, like how she called Bella for the first time in the book.
But in the end I am glad everyone has their own happy ending!
P.S.: The knowledge I got from it: searching for a person on Facebook=being recommended as a friend to add to that person
P.S.S.: Maybe I might have different opinion if I read it at different time. Maybe I am too involved in the book, and my review might not be accurate or well developed, since I have just finished the book. So don't dwell kn my review much :)
Overall the book was nice and quick to read language wise, but it depends on a reader, of course.
At first the timeline and story development was a bit confusing. I couldn't understand why we need this long flashbacks, they were confusing and felt unnecessary. The book itself couldn't catch my interest right away. First chapters didn't even give hint of being related to the brief description that was given in the book description. And I wondered what was the title, and did I read the right description. Maybe I have expected too much from the book.
The beginning of the story and the ending seemed totally different worlds and stories, which is actually not bad thing, maybe that was intended that way. In some cases it's too jumpy from one part to another, it feels like important part of the story left untold, which would explain the current story. Some parts/ideas/passages felt unfinished. Some passages seemed too long, too descriptive and unnecessary, like how she called Bella for the first time in the book.
But in the end I am glad everyone has their own happy ending!
P.S.: The knowledge I got from it: searching for a person on Facebook=being recommended as a friend to add to that person
P.S.S.: Maybe I might have different opinion if I read it at different time. Maybe I am too involved in the book, and my review might not be accurate or well developed, since I have just finished the book. So don't dwell kn my review much :)
February 14, 2021
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. Thanks Booktasters!
We start off with Sam, the main character, who I think tragedy follows her everywhere. She is a journalist working for a news agency in Australia. She goes through a bad break-up with her then boyfriend Ryan and decides she needs change and takes a job in Jakarta.
So, my thoughts. I loved the prologue. It's intriguing and made me want to read the book in an instant but the beginning of the book is rather slow in my opinion. The summary spoils half of it unfortunately, with me just waiting for the shocking twist to happen. You'd think at this point that this is a just another contemporary story and just when you think that that's how the rest of the book is going to go, it hits you. Terrorism and extremism become the main elements of the story and we get an interesting insight on how journalism really works. I haven't read any other books concerning this subject but I really did enjoy it.
In terms of characters, I have to admit I did think of Sam as immature at one point in the book with Bella (who I loved loved loved) only being her voice of reason but she really did grow on me in the end.
Overall, I only had a problem with the beginning of the book. The rest of it moves pretty quickly and you finish before you even know it. I enjoyed the writing, it was descriptive in the right way without being repetitive or tiring so I'd like to read another book by Margaret Lomas in the future.
3.5/5 ⭐
We start off with Sam, the main character, who I think tragedy follows her everywhere. She is a journalist working for a news agency in Australia. She goes through a bad break-up with her then boyfriend Ryan and decides she needs change and takes a job in Jakarta.
So, my thoughts. I loved the prologue. It's intriguing and made me want to read the book in an instant but the beginning of the book is rather slow in my opinion. The summary spoils half of it unfortunately, with me just waiting for the shocking twist to happen. You'd think at this point that this is a just another contemporary story and just when you think that that's how the rest of the book is going to go, it hits you. Terrorism and extremism become the main elements of the story and we get an interesting insight on how journalism really works. I haven't read any other books concerning this subject but I really did enjoy it.
In terms of characters, I have to admit I did think of Sam as immature at one point in the book with Bella (who I loved loved loved) only being her voice of reason but she really did grow on me in the end.
Overall, I only had a problem with the beginning of the book. The rest of it moves pretty quickly and you finish before you even know it. I enjoyed the writing, it was descriptive in the right way without being repetitive or tiring so I'd like to read another book by Margaret Lomas in the future.
3.5/5 ⭐
November 10, 2020
The Network by Margaret Lomas
Thank you, Margaret Lomas, for ending this story just the way I like it—fully resolved. And did I detect a hint of possibility for a sequel? I hope so. I would like to see where Sam’s love of journalism takes her.
But I nearly didn’t make it to the end.
I’ll be honest; I struggled with the cliches and over-explaining in the first few chapters. I quickly understood the depth of Sam and Bella’s friendship. I felt that all the subsequent explanations beyond the first were just filler and repetitive.
I was delighted when I made it beyond the slow start. The story had me eagerly turning the pages. Although I guessed the twist, I was still keen to see how the story would play out. Would Sam be a casualty of the extremists?
Religion can be tricky to write about.
I appreciated the way Margaret Lomas gently spoke of religion and society’s one-size-fits-all judgement. I also found the struggles of the younger generations caught between old-value traditions while navigating a modern world very informative. It was not something I had considered before.
The Network was entertaining and thought-provoking. Margaret Lomas’ debut novel gets a thumbs up from me.
Thank you, Margaret Lomas, for ending this story just the way I like it—fully resolved. And did I detect a hint of possibility for a sequel? I hope so. I would like to see where Sam’s love of journalism takes her.
But I nearly didn’t make it to the end.
I’ll be honest; I struggled with the cliches and over-explaining in the first few chapters. I quickly understood the depth of Sam and Bella’s friendship. I felt that all the subsequent explanations beyond the first were just filler and repetitive.
I was delighted when I made it beyond the slow start. The story had me eagerly turning the pages. Although I guessed the twist, I was still keen to see how the story would play out. Would Sam be a casualty of the extremists?
Religion can be tricky to write about.
I appreciated the way Margaret Lomas gently spoke of religion and society’s one-size-fits-all judgement. I also found the struggles of the younger generations caught between old-value traditions while navigating a modern world very informative. It was not something I had considered before.
The Network was entertaining and thought-provoking. Margaret Lomas’ debut novel gets a thumbs up from me.
December 20, 2020
The Network is a suspense thriller story with crazy plot. I'm surprised about how creatively the characters and emotional bond is build between them and the unpredictability of the plot twist is the cherry oh the cake. This is my first fictional book for review and I'm in love with it.
It is a fictional story about a character named 'Samantha Canon', a young women working as a news reporter and in a relationship with a man named 'Ryan', but soon realise how boring her job and relationship is. With no taste in her job and reationshp she brokes with her man and calls her best firend 'Bella' , who helps her to move to Indonasia and get a new job. She finds a job at CNB which fills her with hope of becoming a international famous journalist. Soon finds love again in name of a handsome man 'Jase'.
Samantha gets a hopeful and exciting life in Indonasia until her inner instincts wakes her up and realises she is maybe in a big trouble and finds herslf stuck between with terrorist organisation.
The story then, full of confusion and suspense and many polt twists ends with a powerful and exciting end Idon;t want to spoil.
In the end, 'The Network' is a entertaining story which is one time must read. This book going to make you use your mind more than anything else.
It is a fictional story about a character named 'Samantha Canon', a young women working as a news reporter and in a relationship with a man named 'Ryan', but soon realise how boring her job and relationship is. With no taste in her job and reationshp she brokes with her man and calls her best firend 'Bella' , who helps her to move to Indonasia and get a new job. She finds a job at CNB which fills her with hope of becoming a international famous journalist. Soon finds love again in name of a handsome man 'Jase'.
Samantha gets a hopeful and exciting life in Indonasia until her inner instincts wakes her up and realises she is maybe in a big trouble and finds herslf stuck between with terrorist organisation.
The story then, full of confusion and suspense and many polt twists ends with a powerful and exciting end Idon;t want to spoil.
In the end, 'The Network' is a entertaining story which is one time must read. This book going to make you use your mind more than anything else.
October 19, 2021
As the story started, I thought it is only going to be about Sam Canon, no side perspective. But plot, twist and turn made the storyline fully interested. I didn't even think that end will be like this. End left me shook. I loved how the entire storyline portrayed and discussed about the serious issue. And I really appreciate how the life of a reporter is explained.
About characters Sam was passionate, hard working, smart and confident whenever it comes about work but I felt she was totally opposite when she was out of work.
Bella: She was totally opposite of Sam within work or outside of it. A true friend of Sam but sometimes her talks hurt Sam too. Still, she always look out for Sam and her well being.
Jase: In the starting, he was a sweet guy and Sam fell for him. But there were some red flags too which were neglected by Sam because she was focusing on another guy.
Arwan: Conservative guy who talks only with people he knows, Sam saw him as a danger because Jase used to act totally opposite with him. From the entry of Arwan, Sam started to see more changes in Jase behaviour.
In the conclusion, the story was something which I didn't expect and I am glad read the book. A story with plot twist and life lesson.
About characters Sam was passionate, hard working, smart and confident whenever it comes about work but I felt she was totally opposite when she was out of work.
Bella: She was totally opposite of Sam within work or outside of it. A true friend of Sam but sometimes her talks hurt Sam too. Still, she always look out for Sam and her well being.
Jase: In the starting, he was a sweet guy and Sam fell for him. But there were some red flags too which were neglected by Sam because she was focusing on another guy.
Arwan: Conservative guy who talks only with people he knows, Sam saw him as a danger because Jase used to act totally opposite with him. From the entry of Arwan, Sam started to see more changes in Jase behaviour.
In the conclusion, the story was something which I didn't expect and I am glad read the book. A story with plot twist and life lesson.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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