The Dry by Jane Harper – ★★☆☆☆

Introductory thoughts

This is a thriller novel set in Australia. I don’t know a lot about it. I am reading it as a part of a book club some of us in my department are participating in. I’ll admit, I am hesitant. There are so many books I’d like to read either because they satisfy a certain niche of mine or because it seems to be receiving a lot of praise (i.e. awards) or both. I haven’t even heard this one.

Update 3/6/2019

I’m 64% through this book, and I am thoroughly disappointed. I fear it may have just been my attitude going in. Nevertheless, I see nothing special about this book. It is mildly interesting and easy enough to follow along, but even 2/3rds of the way through I’ve yet to feel the uncontrollable urge not to stop. At this point, I am only reading it for the book club. I am going to recommend a new way of suggesting books (like a poll where everyone votes like a ranking system). This book was suggested while we all sat around throwing out ideas. I really think we need to have a better idea of what it is we are signing up for, or I’ll just bow out.  Perhaps I am being pretentious, but I like to read two types of books. 1) There are books that satisfy a certain niche of interest (time travel being a big one, as well as horror and Stephen King in particular), and 2) then there are books that are recognized for their uniqueness, creativity, and/or their handling/addressing complicated issues. This book does neither. I’ve read Dan Brown and John Grisham (back in the day); those were at least compelling.

Update 3/11/2019

I finished it. I don’t like it. To be fair, I rushed through it. I forget a lot of the finer details, but in my defense, I don’t think it deserves that level of attention. I definitely would not recommend this book. It wasn’t terrible, but why waste your time with something so mediocre. There are better books–more compelling and interesting books. 2/5 Stars