While I really enjoyed the story, I am deeply let down by the hype surrounding this book. Based on the amount of recommendations I saw, I was expecting another gem like 'East of Eden' or 'Lonesome Dove', but I don't understand why this even falls under the genre of literary fiction. It's quite simply a thriller, albeit a very well-written and well-told one. There are tidbits of Greek and Roman references sprinkled throughout the story, but only a few of them involve any major ideas or concepts. Even the professor under whose influence the students are supposed to have learnt all this makes hardly any appearance in the story. There are no scenes that really show why the students, or particularly the narrator, see Julian as a father figure. The relationship is merely explained, not developed. Moreover, where is the moral conflict? Where are the ethical discussions over their transgressions? There are very few lines that indicate they actually regret what they did. Otherwise, they are mostly just involved in their own self-pity drama. Even when Henry is at Bunny's house before the funeral, I hoped he was in a tough spot because of what he had done to the son of the family, but no, it was because of his headaches. Again, as a thriller, I think it's extremely well written. I would rate it 4/5. Even though I hate it when the ending is stated right at the start, the author does a great job of keeping us hooked and the story thrilling. I loved or rather, hated the characters. The storytelling and writing style pull you in from page one. I was disappointed with the abrupt ending, but then again, I don't think any ending would have been completely satisfying. submitted by /u/Famous-Explanation56 [link] [comments]