Where does Unraveling rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?
High
What other book might you compare Unraveling to, and why?
Beautiful Creatures - countdown to pending doom
Which character – as performed by Katie Schorr – was your favourite?
No favourite
Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
Sadly no.
Any additional comments?
As well as a central plot, Unraveling has a number of sub-plots that run alongside, interweaving and connecting with the main one. As such, there is a lot going on and there are many characters involved. Its complexity is one of its strengths since it is full of intrigue and never boring. I really like Elizabeth Norris’ prose. The depth appeals to me and I think she is very skilled at characterisation. She homes in on human relationships (family, friends, lovers etc.), exploring human behaviour and emotions. Janelle is not afraid to talk about her feelings, giving us insight into her character – which felt very real to me. For example, Janelle experiences a life-changing traumatic event which isn’t glossed over or ignored as the story develops. Instead, the effect it has on her is constantly there in the background, resurfacing and retreating throughout the story – in the way one would expect in the early stages of grief.
Admittedly, willing suspension of disbelief is required in order to go along with the central plot. You will need to overlook the amount of info sensitive to national security that Janelle’s dad is happy to share with her. You will need to overlook the way she seems to gain access to sensitive info related to the FBI investigation and a bunch of teenagers’ ability to do a better job at federal bureau investigation than the professionals.
That said I really enjoyed this audiobook. I intend to listen again and will get the sequel. If like me you enjoy contemporary romance and sci-fi, I would strongly recommend it.