Helpful Score: 9
Molly is dead, victim of a terrible disease. She leaves behind three ex-lovers (two who are friends), and her husband. One of the ex-lovers is a politician who left Molly with a hidden secret, something that could destroy his political career. After she dies, the secret falls into the hands of Molly's lovers. They are faced with a terrible choice, one that their friendship hinges upon. This book is never dreary! The characters are intrinsically flawed, believable, and play well off each other; their foibles are mirrors of our own. It's a short read, beautifully written, and well-deserving of the literary accolades heaped upon it.
Helpful Score: 8
A well-written book by a British author that starts off promising but seems to fall flat at the end. If you have a sarcastic sense of humor and biting wit typical of British standards, you\'ll enjoy it.
Helpful Score: 5
A wry British tragedy. Brings to mind the Biblical quotation about "why do you see the speck in your brother's eye and yet ignore the beam in your own." Confronts the issues of morality and mortality, self-deception and deceit, ambition and loss in a quick and amusing read.
Helpful Score: 5
I began this book with great anticipation, having enjoyed Atonement and Saturday greatly; I finished it not liking the abruptness of the ending. It is as well-written as expected, I just could not make the leap as to the major plot turn that leads to the ending. It is a quick read.
Helpful Score: 5
I like McEwan's work. I did not think this was one of his best, but it was very good nonetheless. It has some interesting twists and turns and held me to the end.
