This audiobook is a breeze to listen to, as it provides a captivating portrayal of Brooklyn, New York during World War II. It follows the story of a woman who works as an underwater diver and unravels a mystery. The author does a fantastic job of vividly describing the characters, the setting, and the various events taking place. However, towards the end, it feels like the main character's decision was hastily made in order to tie up all the loose ends. Regardless, the book offers a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era, which adds to its appeal.
The novel 'Manhattan Beach: A Novel' and the way it was narrated by the readers truly transported me back to World War II-era New York. It was absolutely amazing and so authentic that I felt like I was actually there.
Don't expect any intense mafia drama like The Godfather in "Manhattan Beach: A Novel". The use of language is so excessively dramatic and heavy that it might make you fall asleep if you listen to it while driving. However, if you're looking for something different and you've run out of Ambient, it's worth giving it a shot. Personally, I didn't find anything intriguing or convincing about this book, so I'm planning to return it.
This audiobook is incredibly well-crafted and the cast who narrate it do a fantastic job. Ms. Egan skillfully weaves a compelling tale that explores themes of love within a family, the impact of war, the gritty underworld of gangsters, and the pursuit of women's independence. The narrative seamlessly jumps between different time periods, captivating the reader from start to finish. I was truly mesmerized by the storytelling.
The author has crafted a gripping story that appears to be historically precise, showcasing the societal disruptions caused by World War II. The trio of main characters, along with the prominent presence of the sea throughout the narrative, are portrayed as authentic individuals with depth. Out of the numerous audiobooks I've experienced, this particular novel might just be my all-time favorite.
You gotta check this out, it's a fantastic audiobook. The plot, the characters, and the narration are all spot-on. Trust me, you don't wanna pass on this one.
Egan has crafted an expansive storyline that aims high, occasionally skimming over finer points, but in the end, I was completely engrossed in the characters, rendering any imperfections inconsequential. The way she paints vivid pictures through her descriptive prose transports readers into the heart of the narrative and its various settings, skillfully capturing the essence of pre-war/WWII Brooklyn with both reverence and magnificence.
In Manhattan Beach, the sea serves as both a beautiful and treacherous backdrop. The story begins during the Great Depression, with Anna accompanying her father Eddie Kerrigan to meet mob boss Dexter Styles at Manhattan Beach in Brooklyn. Fast forward ten years, and Anna is now a wartime worker at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, aspiring to become a diver. She crosses paths with Dexter again, believing that he holds the answers to her father's disappearance.
Although the plot may seem sparse for a 15-hour book, Manhattan Beach is primarily a literary work that immerses readers in a specific time and place, while delving into the lives of its characters. The pacing may be slow, and the plot itself has some noticeable gaps, but it is the characters that truly shine in this story. Moreover, the sea and the city are portrayed as dynamic characters alongside Anna, Eddie, and Dexter.
Having had mixed feelings about Jennifer Egan's highly acclaimed Goon Squad, I approached Manhattan Beach with caution. Nevertheless, I found myself leaning towards a positive opinion of the book, although I still harbor doubts about Egan's esteemed status as a contemporary literary figure. One aspect I particularly enjoyed in Manhattan Beach is the overarching metaphor of diving, which symbolizes Anna's journey towards becoming a modern American woman.
Furthermore, the use of multiple narrators, each with their distinct voices for Anna, Eddie, and Dexter, adds depth to the storytelling. However, I cannot guarantee that everyone will share my appreciation for this book. Manhattan Beach has received polarizing reviews, and it seems that one's enjoyment largely depends on whether they connect with the main characters, particularly Anna.
The writer switches between characters and time periods, occasionally loosely linking them, if at all. As a result, the story feels disjointed and I often found myself confused during these transitions. Overall, the plot was mediocre and didn't leave a lasting impression. It's definitely more of a light, easy read, but not one that you can skim through without paying attention, which can be frustrating.
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