The Brotherhood by Yvette Erskine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This novel was not what I expected.
It starts, almost exactly as I expected, introducing an investigator, a victim and mysteriousness. What exactly happened? And why? The first, brief chapter is very good – lots of detail, no substantial information. And then we plunge in; the story progressing with a different narrator each chapter.
Had it not been for the many positive reviews of this book, coupled with the fact that I have listed it as one for the Australian Women Writers Reading Challenge 2012, I might have put it down. I like stories told from different perspectives, but I found myself wanting to edit things – sentences, phrases, clichés. But somewhere along the way, there was a turning point. It helps to read this in one – or at least only a few – sittings.
This novel is about loyalty. Only the surface is a crime novel. Like all good books should, you’ll think about it long after you have finished reading it.
Glad you found the turning point in the book. When I realize I’m mentally editing, I usually don’t finish the book unless the mystery is compelling enough to skim to the end.
Yes, I’m sure if I had been reading this over a longer period of time, I might not have bothered. But I’m glad I did!
I picked this book up to read for the challenge based on some great reviews so it’s interesting to see that you weren’t so enamoured of it. Thanks for sharing your thoughts
Shelleyrae @ Book’d Out
I wasn’t enamoured to start off with, but then changed my mind as I continued reading and definitely thought it was very good when reflecting upon it, having finished reading it. So, a recommended read!
I’m glad you ended up enjoying this novel in the end. It’s probably not something I would normally pick up
Jayne
Hi Jayne!
Thanks for visiting. Will be interested to read your thoughts if you do pick this up!