but a great read nonetheless
581187
Very quick read, but a great read nonetheless. It is a good read for any who are looking to implement affermations into their daily lives. From the simple definition of what an Affirmation is to well thought out examples to help people create their own.  Thank you.
4633925
I read this book right after reading another mystery novel written by another novelist, and the contrast is compelling. While the subject matter of this book is chilling and unsettling - the protagonist of this novel deals in illegal procurement of human body parts - the writing is superb. I wasn't sure that I wanted to continue reading after Chapter One - but I was drawn in, and then couldn't put it down. Not necessarily for the faint-hearted or for those who seek humor and optimism, but still a great read.
3447672
I read this extremely quickly. It's nearly impossible to put it down. It got to be a bit confusing at times as far as who was who but great story nonetheless and I loved the point of view. Coming from McFadden, I expected nothing less.
4006901
I greatly enjoyed this book - so much so that it caused me a couple of very late nights as I turned the pages to read "just one more chapter" ... again and again. It wasn't the detective style novel I had expected, but the author somehow still managed to create suspense in a story that was ostensibly about growing up, career decisions, class, politics, changing societal norms and romance in the 1960s. What came through above all that were the personalities of the characters.

I probably enjoyed it partly because I (somewhat frighteningly) recognised aspects of those personalities, and of the characters' uncertainties, fears and aspirations, in my own and those of my wider family (and I'm a middle-class, middle-aged, European guy, not the young upper class American girl who the story revolves around.)

The setting of the novel in 1968 made for interesting insights into what my parents' generation must have gone through when they were growing up around that time.

The structure of the book, with a prologue and epilogue set half a lifetime after the main events, drew me into the story from the start and then, as another reviewer here said, happily tied it all together very satisfactorily without leaving those frustrating loose ends that so many authors torture us with.

Overall, it was engaging, occasionally funny, in the end moving, and very well written. Can't wait to read the other two books in the series. Strongly recommend it.

(PS. Would the Americans around here stop beating each other up over political ideology, as outlined in the book? For the sake of the rest of the world, or if that's not enough, just for the sake of your own economy? A bit of pragmatism would go a long way. Please?)
782422
This book is a terrific read.  Great story, well written, and interesting.  The primary plot of the book is obviously the most interesting and thought provoking.  SOme of the sub-plots were a little cheesy and unnecessary.  However, the sub-plots take up very little of the book.  Definitely read this book.
2074845
A Y.A. book for sure, but I still really enjoyed it.
87292
The last chapters are hard to read, but this is nonetheless a great book that offers a reminder of one of the hidden perils of the modern world.
291437
A few things I've read in his other books but a great read nonetheless.  Looking forward to some of Jonathan's, newer material.
4325984
This book won't be on neocons recommended lists.  However, for people who want a great read plus a perspective on what's actually been going on behind the geopolitical scenes during the last 8 years, this is a great read.  The primary author has experience with U.S. intelligence agencies, plus the "officially" discredited remote viewing program -- all of which are brought together in _The Archangel Project_.  I'm very much looking forward to this team's next book, _The Deadlight Connection_.
1430962
I only gave a low review because it wasn't what I was expecting it to be, however still made for great reading.
893673
Gets deep into the science, but still a good read.
3374566
Pissed that he went up on the price and the book seem short.  But great read nonetheless. I got my daughter & sister reading and unable to put down.
2353313
The Clockwork Giant was simply a splendid read. With three major plot threads that tied into each other almost perfectly, there's something here for everyone. The romance plot is tightly woven, and completely relevant to the plot. There's a conspiracy with far reaching consequences. Then you have Petra's own rags-to-riches dreams. Brooke even fits in some commentary on class differences that are all the more current with the recent protests.

While I enjoyed the prose and overall plot, that's not to say that it was without some weak areas. The ending itself could have been restructured, as it stands it's a bit sloppy. Some of the elements of the plot are introduced very late so that their over all impact is more forced on the reader than discovered.

Even with these weaknesses, there's a lot I loved. The first line hooked me for the ride, and the last paragraphs left me waiting for the sequel. My definite suggestion: read this book.
3563622
A very enjoyable and brisk read, but not a great novel, unfortunately. The story moves quickly and is well paced. The characters are fairly well-developed and Picoult gives each of them plenty to do without making it all feel forced. Yet, there's something intangible missing that keeps you from saying, "Wow, that was a great book." Perhaps its the highly predicatble ending (despite her best efforts to throw you off the scent, it's pretty transparent). Whatever it is, the read is fun, just not quite great. Additionally, while I respect what she was trying to do with the graphic novel artwork, it ends up being superfluous and can be easily ignored, without inhibiting your understanding of the storyline.
920793
I've been a huge fan of this author since I read Fight Club back in High School. This style is definitely a bit different to that, as it includes a main narrative of the events peppered with individual accounts from each character, but still a great read. Please be warned that some of the stories can be quite graphic or grotesque, so if you're not into gore, violence or sexual content, this may not be for you.
2313491
As in other Dan Brown novels, there are many opportunities to learn about the art world, as well as be entertained by a plot spun bt multiple points of view. Brown successfully raises a modern day issue of overpopulation and invites rhe reader into the conversation. Is it as grim as the would describe, or is it an intricate weaving of fact, statistics, and creative license. I feel the book could have been just as purposeful and entertaining with ten less chapters. Overall, a great read I would reccommend to others.
3097189
I've been watching the series on tv and wanted to read the book. Was surprised by some of the differences between the book and tv version, changes in race of characters, Charley being a widow, but loved it nonetheless. Baszile' s vivid descriptions of the land and characters had me mesmerized and transferred me to a place I long to visit. Can't wait to see  the remaining episodes of the tv series.