Play Book Tag discussion

Private Rites by Julia Armfield - 3* - My Review

Loosely based on King Lear, this is a story of three sisters, Isla, Irene, and Agens, whose abusive father has recently died. Isla and Irene are sisters whose mother died when they were young. Their father remarried and Agnes is their half-sister. The three dislike each other. They live in a dystopian society where it rains constantly. Their father was an architect who designed homes for the wealthy, who are moving to high ground to avoid the flooding. Some people are joining cults, but most are trying to muddle through by going about their usual routines. The narrative focuses on the reunion of the sisters.

It is mostly character driven with a slim plot based around their father’s legacy. There is also an ongoing question of what happened to Agnes’s mother, though I would not call it a typical mystery novel by any stretch. It contains a long slow buildup to a climactic conclusion. I had previously read and admired Armfield’s Our Wives Under the Sea, which led me to request this book. It is well written, but I found it difficult to become invested. I wanted to know more about the society and the “speculative” parts, but it mostly focuses on the sisters, and their traumas, partnerships, and dysfunctions.

PBT November BWF Extra P/A - fits letters not tag

I received an advance reader’s copy from the publisher via NetGalley.

I wondered how you managed to read this already! Interesting review - I will be reading it eventually.

I had forgotten that I requested it on NetGalley, and was surprised to be approved, so I figured I'd go ahead and read it. I'll look forward to your thoughts.

NYPL system shows hold time as 'unknown'. I expect a similar surprise as you had from Netgalley. Eventually. 😂

Theresa wrote: "NYPL system shows hold time as 'unknown'. I expect a similar surprise as you had from Netgalley. Eventually. 😂"
It might be soon. I noticed the release date is Dec 4, 2024.

Joy D wrote: "Theresa wrote: "NYPL system shows hold time as 'unknown'. I expect a similar surprise as you had from Netgalley. Eventually. 😂"
It might be soon. I noticed the release date is Dec 4, 2024."

Maybe ... but I also have no idea where I am on the hold list nor how many licenses they will be getting. Could still be some time as these are 3 week borrows. Plus a huge population served.

When it comes, it will be a welcome surprise.