Publication Date: 25th May, 2010
Source: Through trade
Goodreads Description:
A CHILLING NOVEL ABOUT THE ISOLATION OF BEING STALKED AND THE ABUSE OF POWER. Olivia Peters is over the moon when her literary idol, the celebrated novelist and much adored local priest Mark D. Brendan, offers to become her personal writing mentor. But when Father Mark’s enthusiasm for Olivia’s prose develops into something more, Olivia’s emotions quickly shift from wonder to confusion to despair. Exactly what game is Father Mark playing, and how on earth can she get out of it?
This remarkable novel about overcoming the isolation that stems from victimization is powerful, luminous, and impossible to put down
My Review:
Favourite Quote: But I have faith in the people that surround me now, and I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that they will catch me if I let myself fall. And so I do. I let myself fall.
Sometimes a book surprises you and that is the case with This Gorgeous Game. I thought it would be good but I never expected to love it as much as I did. There are just so many brilliant elements to this book like exceptional writing, a thought provoking plot and outstanding characters that makes this one of my favourite reads.
17 year old Olivia wins a writing competition. Her prize is a scholarship for the summer to study a writing course and be mentored by Father Mark at the Holy Mary University. Olivia is super excited at first to be learning from her literary idol and also a well respected and adored priest. Father Mark showers attention and praise on Olivia. But soon his keen interest for Olivia turns into something more.
It is a intense read in a subtle kind of way. It explores such dark areas which such sensitivity. I would say it is emotional put never painful to read. And talk about a powerful story. It just lingers with you for days and days after you have finished.
The characters are impressive. Olivia had such an utterly convincing voice. You could really feel her excitement and joy turn to pain, confusion and a sense of helplessness. And Father Mark ~shudders~. The emotional pain he caused Olivia will definitely make you angry and creep you out a little.
However there are also plenty of moments in this book that will bring you happiness like Olivia's relationship with her family, friends and Jamie. Jamie is a guy Olivia meets at the University. There romance is absolutely beautiful. It was written in a subtle way that didn't take away from the important issues this story deals with.
Overall, This Gorgeous Game is a standout story for me. A real and honest read that will leaving you saying WOW.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
Cover: 5/5
For more info: Visit Donna Freitas' website
For more reviews: Inkcrush
** A BIG THANKS to Nomes for this rec!
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18 comments:
Authority figures and power abuse are really interesting topics. I'm glad to see it was done well ^.^ Thanks for the review!
I love those reads that surprise you by how good they are :) Great review, I've seen this book around but it never really appealed to me, but I think you've changed my mind! I think if it has a distinctive voice and good characters, I'll enjoy it :)
gorgeous review nic.
i can't wait to do the re-read with you in JULY :D
I. Am. Glad. Nomes pushed me into buying the paperback that's coming out soon, so I'll FINALLY get to read it. I've wanted to read it since I first read the synopsis. Nice quote too. Very inspired.
I've never really heard much about this book before now, bu is sounds like it's one worth checking out for sure! Great review!
This Gorgeous Game sounds like book I would like - especially since you described it as dark and lingering. Seems like an intense but powerful read.
The premise makes me think of my aunt's manuscript-- it's also about a girl who gets a mentorship with an older guy who turns out to be a creeper. But honestly, I'm glad this book is actually more cheerful-- and romantic-- than my aunt's book! (It's a real downer!) Glad you enjoyed it, and thanks for the review. :)
Intense with sensitivity. Oh man... I am curious. I really need to put this one on my wishlist. Thanks for letting me know about this book.
I completely agree, Nic! I thought this book was so dark, but so powerful. I'm so glad to see someone else appreciate it :D
I've eyed this book on at my public library's shelf and debated whether I could handle a dark read. Glad to know it's not a total downer and that it surprised you. I may have to pick this one up now.
I love it when a book surprises you! This one sounds like an emotional but amazing read, and I'll be adding it to my wishlist. Thanks for the recommendation, Nic!
Wow...this book sounds intense and definitely chilling. Love the writing competition angle. I'm definitely checking it out!
"And so I do. I let myself fall." Such a beautiful quote.
It just utterly breaks my heart when I read about RL stories in which someone is hurt by a person they should have been able to trust.
I'm glad for this review, Nic. I probably wouldn't have considered this book before, but it's a must read for me.
This sounds so amazing thanks for the review. i was kind fo undecided about it, but it's good to know it isn't painful to read just emotional - emotional I can cope with!
WOW! This sounds like a powerful read! I must get. Thanks for the review!
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