Sometimes it happens. And it just happened to me. This is the book that the book club I am in chose to read next. I tried. I really did. It is a novel of suspense which has been called creepy and chilling, and I am all for that at this time of year. But I have decided that I am just not the right audience for this particular story. Told in alternating voices between mother and 7-year-old daughter (who has not yet started talking). It is a 'bad seed' sort of creepy tale.
However, I found those voices so odious I could not make myself go on. I feel bad as I know lots of readers have really enjoyed this. I often really enjoy unlikable characters as they make for interesting storytellers, but this time? I couldn't. They disturbed me too much. I hope the book does well and more power to the author, but I think I will spend time with Kinsey Millhone this weekend and maybe start a reread of a Shirley Jackson novel. So many other books to try on my piles to spend time with one that isn't quite working for me.
Does this happen to you, too? A character (or characters) turn you off so much you just have to set the book aside? I think I will still go to book club as I am curious what the other readers will think of it. And I would love to know the ending (so feel free to share if you have read it--in this case--spoil away).