Reader's Ink discussion

What was your rating and overall impression of the book?

I gave the book a 5. This book was a delight to read, it kept me guessing from the moment they got into the water until the very end. I love books like that. And so many twists and turns made me want to keep reading. Got it done quite quickly. The start is a little slow, but what a ride. Loved it.

(Apologies in advance: I twisted my ankle over the weekend, which wouldn't have been a big deal except I'm a moron who thought I was well enough to go to a yoga class this morning (it was gentle!), which was a very stupid idea, as I made my ankle much, much worse. I am now in a fair amount of pain (according to my wimp meter), and, after trying to write this reply three times, I've accepted that I apparently managed to sprain my brain as well. Please read this (and any other replies I write today) with a grain of salt.)

I'm planning on giving it a four. I enjoyed it for what it is: intelligent bubblegum reading that's well written. Marina is an engaging protagonist, and the surrounding characters were interesting without being overpowering. I liked it more than I expected (the two people I knew who had read this book both hated it and told me to skip it), but, for me, it's not the sort of book that inspires strong emotions. It's too languid to get worked up about in either direction. It's fun, it's entertaining, and I'm glad I read it.

I gave it a 4 as well. I genuinely enjoyed it, liked the escapist element of the Amazon, and Dr. Swenson was a reaaaaally interesting character. It was smart AND escapist, which is one of my favorite bookish combinations, so yay!

In fact, with our power out during a heat wave this weekend due to a big fat storm, I had the joy of finishing this book in a very hot, humid house. I felt particularly close to the atmosphere of the steamy Amazon. :)