_julesreads_'s reviews
69 reviews

Didn't realize there was more to this series and it's universe. Definitely going to be a future re-read. I think knowing the other pieces of the world and reading through again will make me grow into liking it even more.

The way the author really made me feel vulnerable reading this just made me want to keep going even though I found myself almost crying or nervous and stressed at some points. Eddison’s story opening up and him showing his humanity more than in “The Butterfly Garden”, made me really change how I thought of his character and I enjoyed the way him and other previous characters were intertwined with the new (and sometimes overwhelming amount) ones. Priya’s story and strength… just so empowering. The dark themes were handled with care but not watered down. I can find myself digging through this series again in the future. Onto #3 of the Collector Series for me.

I start this review as probably my most in depth through my reading journey.

"The Chain" was an absolute page turner and at times I found it difficult to put down or would fall asleep with it beside me. It is terrifying because as a mother I sit here and wonder if this happened to me how would I even go about handling this. Even with this as a work of fiction, scary and evil things are happening all around us without anyone even knowing if it isn't happening to your own person, and "The Chain" captures that well with Rachel's commentary of people's reaction or non-reaction to her as she spirals. I find the pacing of this book perfect, and I appreciated the keeping of the timeline at the start of each chapter for the first half of the book. "The Chain" does well on covering a multitude of difficult subjects, underground crime, what someone is capable of to protect their family, your own moral compass, the effects of war and 9/11 on Americans, and opiate addiction. I feel Adrian McKinty tackled these topics with incredible transparency. The intensity throughout every ordeal and situation was always there, my heart racing at times. The way the ones behind The Chain were written showed how they were genuine, clinical psychopaths from birth. Maybe one more than the other as she became more and more reckless. The author is very intentional in every detail and I liked the way he wrote in and continued Erik's seemingly meaningless quote towards the end again, "A man once told me that all books should end at chapter seventy-seven." Multiple times I could definitely see where the story was headed but a couple of situations left me guessing some wildly outlandish conclusions that were improbable because I wasn't sure what to expect. I'm glad I couldn't just guess every thing.
"The Chain" is a must read I think if you are a fan of crime and thrillers.

I really enjoyed this one. Jennette's dark and witty humor may not be for every one but I really relate to her outlook and how she reflects on things that she's experienced. At times I did find it difficult to keep reading with how personal it got and I felt maybe certain details could have been left out. I know some don't like the abrupt end but I think it shows how she felt in the moment, Done. Her story isn't over but that part is and she can no move forward with all the resources and tools she has gained through her recovery. Her descriptions were well done and I felt like I could really picture the scenes. One criticism that stuck with me through the whole thing was since I read this while listening to the audiobook version, sometimes Jennette reading speed was a little fast. It felt like details and emotions were getting lost by the fast paced reading. I didn't mind it too much but some parts it was a little more noticeable.

For a book to make me bawl the way this one did... I can give it nothing less than 5 stars. Early on and for a minority of the time did I feel like some of it was long-winded and unnecessary. Other than that I was captured by the story and shocked and heartbroken. I have never felt closer to characters in a story like this one.

David Sheff's account of his experience with drug abuse and addiction is raw and handled with an open mind. I appreciate him sharing his own opinions and sharing his story but also providing facts and professional opinions throughout the book. He asked many questions and left us with possible answers to those questions. He shares his vulnerability and lets you in to a very sensitive and dark place. I think anyone who has a loved one struggling with addiction should read this book. I think anyone who has struggled with addiction should read this book. I think everyone should read this book.

Oh my goodness. I absolutely loved this book. I usually don't read these types of books but this was so well written and the pacing perfect. Funny at times and also dealt with some more serious topics. My favorite part was the Epilogue. I can't wait to read the other parts of this series, going back to the first.

The twists and turns in this story kept me locked in and I am obsessed with all of it.