I haven’t read a book for a couple of months now, what with the Christmas build up and New Year celebrations.
So last week I picked up this interesting new book, Nine Perfect Strangers by one of my favourite authors – Liane Moriarty. I’ve already read Truly, Madly, Deeply, The Last Anniversary and Big Little Lies (and seen the TV programme) and thoroughly enjoyed them all.
I’m glad to say I wasn’t disappointed as it was an inquisitive read. Not so much of a thriller as I first expected, but it was indeed a thought provoking and intriguing read.
Liane Moriarty slowly introduced each character’s background throughout the book, adding little hints along the way – it was brilliant.
You got acquainted with each character, gradually understanding “how they ticked” and the inner strength they each possessed.
My two favourite characters were Carmel and Tony. Liane Moriarty wrote about these two separate characters drifting through the latter years of their lives whilst losing their own identities.
During one of the storylines, the “Nine Strangers” are locked behind closed doors. This is when Carmel and Tony’s strength of character showed as they helped keep the others strong and calm.
The complex characters of Heather, Napoleon and their daughter Zoe, trying to deal with the suicide of their son/brother – were the ones who bought a tear to my eye. Trying to work through their own guilt, and trying not to blame one another for Zach’s suicide.
The twist and turns of Masha’s needy and selfish character was a bit of page turner for me. I was left wondering if it was part of her retreat plan or was she just a little psychopathic. The character of poor Yao being drawn along with it all, from a sense of duty to Masha and a platonic love for her.
As I said previously, it was certainly an interesting read and one I enjoyed. I’m going to read some of Liane Moriarty’s previous books this year, as I’ve heard The Husband’s Secret and Hypnotists Love Story are good reads too.