Laura

I tried to listen to the audiobook of The Raven Boys. But I just could not get into it. IDK if it is just because I wasnt fully paying attention (I usually listen to audiobooks while I craft) but it just didn't keep my attention, and I had to keep rewinding. Its has such good reviews that I know I will give it another shot, but I just need to actually read it. So for now, it is DNF and back onto the TBR. :(

Ugh this book. this was recommended by my best friend, and I trust her judgment when it comes to books, usually. this is actually the second Jodi Picoult book she's made me read, the first being My Sister's Keeper, which I loved. but Handle With Care was honestly so frustrating. the change of voice every chapter was jarring at first, and Charlotte annoyed the crap out of me. I did identify with Amelia though, since I struggled with some of the things she did when I was younger. it was beautifully written, of course, but once I was halfway through I just wanted it to be over.... and once it was, I was just pissed off. the ending was just AAAARRRGGHHH. Jodi Picoults endings have now made me swear to never read her books again. I just can't do it again.

I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick read. At first I thought it was going to read like stereo instructions (the word “handbook” scares me), but it was a really nice narrative. It follows John Lago, orphan turned drug mule turned assassin. Most of the story is about his “last job” before retiring from the assassin business at the “ripe age of 25.”
Over the course of the book, I grew really attached to John, and loved his relationship with Alice. The last few chapters were a total surprise twist, but I liked that direction it took. The very end was left a little open ended, which I did NOT like. But overall, it was a great novel.