The Emperor’s Children by Claire Messud ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book enraged me, had me on edge, and makes it really hard not to judge the characters poor or at the least questionable life choices.
Both hated it and couldn’t stop engaging with it as well, lots of outburst while reading for sure. Just the worst betrayals dressed up as just part of life for all involved.
The family dynamic for Murray, Annabel, and Marina is messed up and everyone notices the strange interactions between father and daughter but nothing is done. The betrayal unfolding have rather interesting reactions as well, not always delivered as one would expect.
Like a great dramatic soap opera all sides are unfolded creating a steady stream of emotions and social drama for all.
The title of this book is very miss leading, the descriptions of women in the book are a bit cringy, the male gaze is very well represented throughout the story.
The characters are all very self aware, however aware of the possibilities and negative outcomes they still make the questionable decisions, mostly driven by personal pleasures.
The outcome of the self aware morally questionable play, offering up a very frustrating relationship, between reader and characters.
Unable to find a single member without flaws to cling to or find loyalty in, each page offers a new frustrating scenario throwing into everyday routine.
I gave this book 3 stars, the dramatic situation and outcome are very entertaining however frustrating to read. A great recommendation for drama lovers - a sneaky lovers/ affair trope.