As a language and literature teacher, this story, from the outset, was appealing, especially the travelogue component. Moving us from one European, Asian, African city to another, Ms. Mangan presented colorful sights, sounds and landmarks, including a few language
…more expressions I will hold on to for my own travels.
The main characters, cold Louise and suspicious Henri, both escaping traumatic pasts, were not likable. moving from hotel to bus to train to ferry in predicable as the chased and the chaser. For me, the mystery component in this novel, although described in beautiful prose, came in like a whimper and went out the same way. The minor characters in this tale were not believable and seemed contrived. All parts of the plot throughout were predictable.
I enjoyed the literary technique Ms Mangan used to present her characters and their stories. Hopefully these two lonely and sad misfits find peace somewhere in the world. The reader could not help but root for them.
I plan to read Tangerine also by Ms. Mangon, hoping to experience another surprising and unique story. (less)
