Earth

By: John Boyne

Narrated by: Dane Whyte O’Hara

Brought to you by Penguin.

From internationally bestselling author John Boyne, an inescapably gritty story about one young man whose direction in life takes a vastly different turn than what he expected.

It’s the tabloid sensation of the year: two well-known footballers standing in the dock, charged with sexual assault, a series of vile text messages pointing towards their guilt.

As the trial unfolds, Evan Keogh reflects on the events that have led him to this moment. Since leaving his island home, his life has been a lie on many levels. He’s a talented footballer who wanted to be an artist. A gay man in a sport that rejects diversity. A defendant whose knowledge of what took place on that fateful night threatens more than just his freedom or career.

The jury will deliver a verdict but, before they do, Evan must judge for himself whether the man he has become is the man he wanted to be.

©2024 John Boyne (P)2024 Penguin Audio

Boyne at his best

Thoroughly brilliant… however, I believe as I did after Water, that his marketers are taking readers for a ride. Should be one book, one purchase price… not novellas or whatever definition fits a short book.
Disappointed that they went this way, and instead of being excited to purchase, we did so a little grudgingly!

Superb

Absolutely loving this series. Fabulous writing and narration. Highly recommended.

Going on to book three now.

The treacherous paths of confused youth

The second book of the series "The Elements" continues to present the increasing level and depth of abusive relationships, moving the focus to an unexpected victim and a twisting path of guilt and redemption. The plot is eventful and catchy, with a surprising end.
I liked how this book connects to the first one in the series, "Water". It is interesting to observe the subtle transition of characters, from the events described earlier to the new ones.