If you’re looking for a book that’s as complex as a family reunion and as juicy as a ripe apple, then Apples Never Fall might just be your next read. This review will walk you through the plot, characters, themes, and writing style of this intriguing novel. I’ve read it, laughed at it, and at times, groaned at some predictable twists. Let’s get to the core of it, shall we?
Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty: Review
In a nutshell
Apples Never Fall, written by Liane Moriarty, is a compelling mix of mystery and family drama. The story revolves around the Delaney family, known for their successful tennis academy. But when the matriarch, Joy, goes missing, old wounds and secrets resurface. The book delves deep into themes like ambition, familial relationships, societal expectations, and the varied perception of success.
Moriarty skillfully weaves past and present timelines, creating an engaging narrative that keeps you turning pages. While some twists might be predictable, the depth of the characters and the exploration of their interpersonal dynamics make it a worthwhile read.
Plot and Storyline: A Juicy Blend in ‘Apples Never Fall’
Oh boy, where do I start with the plot of ‘Apples Never Fall’? It’s like biting into a big, juicy apple—surprising, sweet, and sometimes a little tart. The book kicks off with the disappearance of Joy Delaney, the matriarch of a tennis-obsessed family. Just imagine a Wimbledon match where everyone’s looking for the ball, but the ball’s actually a missing person. It’s twisty and keeps you guessing. I found myself shouting, ‘What next?’ more times than I could count.
Author Liane Moriarty is a master at weaving different timelines together like a well-made tennis racket. You switch between the past, where the Delane family runs a successful tennis academy, and the present, where suspicions and secrets start bubbling to the surface. It’s like a game of doubles with plenty of volleys back and forth. One moment, you’re learning about Joy and her husband Stan’s deep-seated rivalry, and the next, you’re diving into their children’s tangled lives. Each chapter felt like peeling back a layer of an onion—except, you know, less teary and more intriguing.
Now, I gotta be honest, the plot isn’t without its faults. Some twists feel a bit predictable, like when you see a drop shot coming from a mile away. And there are moments when the pacing drags, making you wish you could fast-forward like a match replay. But overall, the storyline keeps you hooked till the very last page. It’s got enough suspense and family drama to keep even a non-reader interested. Seriously, you might start checking the family tree for secrets!
Now, let’s hit the next topic with gusto: Character development. Stay tuned!
Character Development in Apples Never Fall
When it comes to character development in Apples Never Fall, Liane Moriarty doesn’t disappoint. The book is like a family reunion where everyone has a secret and a unique personality. The Delaney family—Stan, Joy, and their four adult children—feels like people you might actually know. Honestly, I could see a bit of my own family in them, minus the tennis career. Or the drama. Okay, maybe not my family at all.
Stan and Joy are intriguing characters. Stan is a retired tennis coach and pretty stubborn. Joy, on the other hand, is the quintessential nurturing mom who seems to be holding everything together. Their relationship is complex and relatable. It’s like watching your parents bicker but knowing deep down they’re perfect for each other.
Each of the Delaney children brings something unique to the table. There’s Amy, the eldest, who’s a bit of a mess, but aren’t we all sometimes? Then there’s Logan, who’s reliable but kind of caught up in his own world. Troy is the seemingly successful one, yet he’s hiding his own battles. And Brooke, the youngest, is struggling with her own career and health issues. I felt like I was getting to know real people with real struggles, not just characters in a book.
Although some characters could use more depth, Moriarty manages to keep you invested in their journeys. You feel their highs and lows, their triumphs, and their failures.
Next, we’ll tackle the themes and life messages, which are as ripe as a freshly picked apple.
Themes and Messages in Apples Never Fall
Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty isn’t just a murder mystery; it’s a deep dive into family dynamics and the complexities of long-term relationships. The central theme revolves around the idea of when loyalty becomes a burden. The Delaney family’s bonds are stressed to the limit, showing how secrets can rot an otherwise perfect family tree.
The book explores themes of ambition and the sacrifices made for success. The parents, Joy and Stan, are former tennis coaches who pushed their children hard, raising questions about the cost of their ambitions. Can drive and determination bring happiness, or do they just mask deeper issues? Moriarty doesn’t shy away from these hard-hitting questions.
Another striking theme is the perception of success versus failure. The Delaney kids are all grown up, but each is struggling with their own personal battles, making readers question what true success really looks like. Is it winning on the court, or finding peace off of it?
The book also sheds light on the repercussions of past actions. The narrative keeps bouncing between the past and present, showing how decisions made years ago can have lasting impacts. It adds to the suspense, as you start wondering if maybe, just maybe, apples really do fall far from the tree.
For the next part of this review, let’s discuss how Moriarty’s writing style and pacing keep the reader gripped till the very end.
Writing Style and Pacing in Apples Never Fall
The writing style of Apples Never Fall is simple and effective. Liane Moriarty knows how to pull you into a story. Her language is clear and accessible, without too much fluff. The dialogues feel natural, like talking to friends over a cup of coffee. One thing I loved is how she makes complex emotions and situations seem easy to understand. She’s got a knack for making you feel what the characters are going through.
However, the pacing is a bit like jogging up a hill after too much pie: challenging at times. The story jumps between timelines, which is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it adds depth to the plot. On the other hand, it sometimes slows things down to a crawl. There are moments when you might find yourself wondering, ‘Are we there yet?’ The first half of the book moves at a snail’s pace, setting up a lot of background. I felt like I was waiting forever for something to happen.
But then, bam! The second half picks up speed like a kid on a sugar rush. If you hang on through the slow parts, the payoff is worth it. The tension builds, and suddenly you’re racing toward the finish line. It’s like watching a slow-burn movie that finally gets to the action-packed climax.
So, would I recommend Apples Never Fall? Absolutely, but only if you’re patient enough to wade through the slower bits. It’s a bit uneven, but overall, a satisfying read.
Conclusion
Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty is a complex family drama filled with humor, unpredictable twists, and deep themes. The plot is engaging, even if some twists are predictable and the pacing is uneven. The characters are relatable and complex, making it easy to get invested in their journey. This book tackles family dynamics, ambition, and perceptions of success with a clear writing style that makes the slow parts worth it. If you’re a fan of family sagas and mysteries, this book is worth picking up. And with that, we’re concluding the review!
