My Book Review of Boca Raton (Warmer collection)
Boca Raton by Lauren GroffMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Disturbing and Surreal
I think this short story did what it was meant to do – it confused my emotions while sort of tormenting my mind. The tale was like a disturbing dream about humanity and its effect on Earth painted into words that fit Surrealism literature. It was delightfully dark in a mundane modern construct.
What I liked was this book-come-to-life element. I thought Ange was strong, independent, and compassionate with an incredible imagination. Still, I mixed in his those same qualities seemed to work against her in such a painfully negative way when she became afraid. I’m not sure I agree with the depiction of the character, and that is something I struggled with as things took shape.
What I didn’t like was feeling left with an incomplete story. I’m not sure if the author intentionally made choices to leave this unsatiated aura to match the Reader’s experience with the protagonist, but it was disturbing. I’ll explain in a way to not give spoilers… not all things were explained. There were certain happenings that needed more to round out the plot for me.
Would I recommend this book? Yes. It’s original, has a dreamlike quality on something so relateable, and does a intended – gets you thinking. Overall, it’s a quick, entertaining read.
