Entanglement by Steven Boykey Sidley (Picador Africa), R175,95. ISBN: 9781770102149 - Jared is having a midlife crisis.

Trapped in academia, and horrified by the stupidity of people, he is confronted with a few traumatic experiences.

Not even this allowed me to see past the fact that Jared is a truly unlikable protagonist.

It was impossible to believe that arrogant, opinionated Jared had friends and a “perfect” girlfriend.

The author tells, and tells, and tells. Writers need to show, as all good readers, and writers, know. Everyone involved has a backstory, but good writers know when to leave that out.

“Astonishing” is a word used in blurbs to try and sell this book. It astonished me that it was ever published.

 The book is also printed in a font that is too small, and on white paper, much like a school textbook.

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