A Repetitive & Unfulfilling Fetch Quest
I was curious about the reviews and what people thought of the book. I read through some of them and it seems that a lot of people think it’s a great read. However, I don’t know how many people this is actually for.
However, the book’s true power lies in its exploration of the human condition and the ways that we all cope with loss. It’s a thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after you finish it. ..
The book is dense and slow-moving, with a lot of filler material between the interesting bits. The characters are one-dimensional and the plot is thin. Despite this, there are some nice descriptions of cities and plenty of pages describing food, but the story just isn’t all that interesting.
As they travel, they uncover a web of secrets and conspiracies that threaten to derail their investigation. Along the way, they meet colorful characters and come into contact with some of the most powerful people in the world. Ultimately, they find the book and its power – and a new way to live.
Lily is on her way to a hotel room when she falls for someone who gives her no clues as to where the next place will lead. She’s repeatedly led down the same path, with no end in sight. The story tries to add some spice by having sex scenes but it’s more uncomfortable and cringe-worthy to read than genuinely hot and sexy.
The protagonist is cheating on her ill husband, which just feels icky?
The protagonist, Lily, does not feel guilty or dramatic after her actions. There is some foreshadowing in the story, but the ending reframes her actions in a new light. ..
The biggest problem with The Book of the Most Precious Substance though is the lack of tension or obstacles for Lily to overcome. Now, had the book decided that Lucas and Lily HAD to have sex in order for Lily’s relationship with her husband to improve then it could have raised some interesting internal dilemmas and reframed Lily as a sympathetic protagonist. Instead, she fantasizes constantly about a more carefree life, almost looking at her taking care of Abel (her husband) as a job than anything else. It’s perhaps ironic then that the absolute best chapters in the book come from Lily reminiscing fondly about her husband and the time they had together.
Many people will find the dialogue and prose to be hit or miss, and this is one of those books that has a tendency to say more with four words than it does with four sentences. Be prepared for numerous instances of “Huh?” Said Lucas. “Huh?” I said. We both wondered what that meant together. ..
I found the plot to be weak and the writing was poor. The book lacked excitement and I did not feel like I was learning anything new.
