Kendra's Reviews > Katerina

* I received a free advanced copy of this book from the publisher.

I don't typically write reviews. In fact, this is my first. I prefer to digest the book internally and alone, over days as the residual feelings from the story fade, always fearing whatever review I could put into words would never do the book or author or story the proper justice... which is precisely the case for this book.

THIS BOOK ... I'm nearly speechless. I had to make a conscious effort to maintain composure and not fold myself into the depths of despair when I finished this book. I felt at once exhilarated yet achingly sad. Alternating between his present life and his time in Paris 25 years ago, he tells a love story that is exciting, heartbreaking, devastating, fueled by a rawness and intensity that James Frey is adept at delivering.

I didn't buy into the controversy that followed A Million Little Pieces - I loved his writing style and subject matter, and I didn't care what parts were true or not. He entertained me, kept me enthralled, and he burned the fucking world down with that book. But his books after that weren't as good and I understand now the effect that the controversy surrounding that book had on his mind and his writing. It's clear from reading Katerina that he's recovered and he's back better than fucking ever. I have a tremendous amount of respect for the way James Frey bares his soul, weaves his words, shares his stories.