Comments on Cynical Optimism: Her Fearful Symmetry

I don't think I'd consider it gooey. It d...

2010-02-18T16:12:35.858-06:00

I don't think I'd consider it gooey. It does have a definite love story, but the characters are fascinating, the time travel elements are interesting, and the connection the characters make with each other and with the reader is very powerful. A good solid, non-mushy love story. Don't let the movie trailers fool you into thinking this is some kind of chick-flick thing or some type of Gone With the Wind romance. It is anything but.

Carl V- I loved Martin's (and his wife's) ...

2010-02-18T12:52:42.588-06:00

Carl V- I loved Martin's (and his wife's) storyline too. B recommended Time Traveler's Wife too but it just sounds so gooey!

softdrink- i liked the cemetery history too.

When I think back on this one, my favorite part of...

2010-02-16T15:57:31.861-06:00

When I think back on this one, my favorite part of the book is Highgate Cemetary. I think I remember the cemetary more vividly than I do the characters!

I'm glad you read it and sorry that it didn...

2010-02-16T08:26:34.616-06:00

I'm glad you read it and sorry that it didn't blow you away. As you probably know (especially if you've read my spoiler review now) I was impressed with her writing ability but did not like the characters enough to want to recommend the book to anyone but the Niffenegger devotees. If it weren't for Martin I don't know if I would have been able to keep slogging through the book despite wanting to give it a fair shake.

I would highly recommend Time Traveler's Wife, which I adored.