I was so excited about this book. I thought the four main characters all seemed promising and that it’s written beautifully especially when it comes to describing the setting, characters and particularly the emotions. I can’t remember the last book I read that I can vividly imagine in my head as I read through as much as this one. I found that the storytelling is rich and could have been impactful. Unfortunately, there were too many unnecessary elements in the story that made it such a drag.

One of my biggest issue about this book is how misleading the description is. I was so enamored with their friendship and the dynamics and the lack of romantic attachment. I found it so refreshing and so wholesome that it makes me envious for that kind of friendship. I started losing interest when the book turns to the relationship between Jude and Wilhelm. I understand that Jude is fragile and seems improbable to open up to anyone else other than Wilhelm but I feel like what a waste of storyline between two best friends. It was a huge let down.

After finishing the book I’m left with the question of what does this story aim to deliver? What impact does it want to give its reader? The emotional investment of reading through so much pain and trauma is for nothing, not worth it.

And lastly, poor poor Harold. If the story centered on him this books will probably be more heart breaking. He deserves more.