Review: Great Story, Until Just Before the Ending
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 09 25, 2013
I loved the book until just before the ending. Rachel and her friend Tillie are opposite in many ways; yet they're best friends. I really enjoyed the details of their relationship - financially challenged, moody Rachel, in contrast to the wealthy, superficial, and fragile Tille. They stick around for each other despite their very different lives, and take turns when the other falls into one of life's challenges.I laughed a lot during the scene where Tillie and Rachel attend a party at Tillie's insistence. Rachel's apprehension contrasted jarringly with the pretentiousness of the guests at the party, leading to some funny moments. And the way the party ended for Rachel, well, just read it, it was another funny twist.The Caribbean folklore regarding the "duppy," a spiritual being native to the Caribbean, was very interesting. I was a bit disappointed though, in the ending where there is no mention of her resolution with the "duppy." I also liked the pace of the book; it seems to fit in with Barbados culture: slow, relaxed pace, with strange, spontaneous outbursts. The friendship theme was precious.The last two chapter were unexpected. The author may have wanted a climatic finish, but I felt a little disappointed in how it turned out. I was anxiously waiting to see how Rachel would confront or overcome the "duppy" but this did not happen, instead there was an unexpected twist that I felt didn't tie up any loose ends or fit in with the story.However, since it's an excellent book up to the last two chapters, I'll give it four stars. You won't be disappointed in the overall story. And there's some great moments of unexpected humour (love that nosy neighbour) and some glimpses of Barbados culture and lifestyle.