Liane Moriarty’s “Apples Never Fall” is a gripping and intricately woven domestic thriller that delves into the complexities of family dynamics and secrets. Moriarty is Known for her ability to create rich characters and compelling narratives, and this novel is no exception. However, there were way too many unnecessary details about the life of the main characters – and not only – for my taste and…patience.
Set in the suburbs of Sydney, Australia, the story revolves around the Delaney family, particularly Stan and Joy, an elderly couple who have been married for decades and run a successful tennis academy. As they enter their later years into the retirement, their once solid marriage begins to show cracks, and their adult children are left to navigate the fallout. Long forgotten acts and failures begin to surface and the relationship is not longer what used to be.
When Joy mysteriously disappears, leaving behind a broken glass table, her family is left to grapple with questions and suspicions.
The story is told from the perspectives of the four Delaney children: Amy, Logan, Troy, and Brooke, each with their unique struggles and secrets.
The exploration of marriage and long-term relationships is another notable aspect of the novel. Moriarty delves into the challenges faced by couples who have been together for decades, highlighting the intricacies of love, resentment, and the choices individuals make to either preserve or redefine their relationships.
Moriarty’s writing style is sometimes captivating, sometimes tiring, and she weaves together multiple storylines, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected lives. However, at some point the story seems to be just a salad of ideas, which apparently were not connected.
Moriarty has a knack for creating relatable and flawed individuals, each with their own quirks and motivations. As the story progresses, the complexities of the Delaney family dynamic and the secrets they harbor come to light, making the characters even more compelling.
Each member of the Delaney family is distinct, flawed, and relatable, allowing readers to connect with their struggles and motivations. The author expertly explores themes of love, loyalty, forgiveness, and the complexity of familial relationships.
The exploration of marriage and long-term relationships is another notable aspect of the novel. Moriarty delves into the challenges faced by couples who have been together for decades, highlighting the intricacies of love, resentment, and the choices individuals make to either preserve or redefine their relationships. The author skillfully navigates these themes, offering readers a poignant and realistic portrayal of marriage.
While “Apples Never Fall” excels in many aspects, some readers might find the plot to be slightly convoluted, with numerous subplots and twists that can be overwhelming at times. Additionally, the resolution of certain storylines may feel rushed or unresolved, leaving readers wanting more closure.
Overall, “Apples Never Fall” is an engaging read that showcases Liane Moriarty’s storytelling prowess. With its well-crafted characters, albeit sometimes boring intricate family dynamics, and a mystery that keeps readers guessing what’s next, the novel is a testament to Moriarty’s ability to captivate and entertain her audience.
The plot is intricately constructed, with twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the final pages. Moriarty skillfully plants seeds of doubt and suspicion, expertly manipulating the reader’s perceptions and expectations. The pacing is steady, gradually building tension as the mystery unfolds.
While “Apples Never Fall” primarily focuses on the Delaney family and their personal struggles, the novel also tackles larger social issues. Moriarty touches on themes such as gender roles, societal expectations, and the challenges faced by women as they navigate career and family life. These elements add depth and relevance to the story, elevating it beyond a simple domestic drama.
However, I have found the pacing to be slow at times, as the book spends considerable time exploring the intricacies of family dynamics and character development. Too many details that don’t help with character description, nor with the plot developing, just waste of readers’ time. Additionally, the resolution of the mystery was not satisfying at all, I for instant would prefer more action-oriented conclusions.
My rating is 3 out of 5 stars, despite minor flaws in pacing and resoution, the book is still worth reading (specially if you just skip the boring parts).
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