This week, I’m linking up again with Diane at Bibliophile by the Sea who hosts a post every Tuesday for people to share the first chapter / paragraph of the book they are reading, or thinking of reading soon. I really enjoy these tasters when I read them on other blogs so wanted to join in.
Right now I’m reading The Girls by Emma Cline which is due out next month and caught my eye on Net Galley. Apparently there is a “buzz” about it which always worries me as I end up with high expectations but so far, it is living up to it’s positive reputation I must say.
Here’s what it’s about…
Evie Boyd is desperate to be noticed. In the summer of 1969, empty days stretch out under the California sun. The smell of honeysuckle thickens the air and the sidewalks radiate heat.
Until she sees them. The snatch of cold laughter. Hair, long and uncombed. Dirty dresses skimming the tops of thighs. Cheap rings like a second set of knuckles. The girls.
And at the centre, Russell. Russell and the ranch, down a long dirt track and deep in the hills. Incense and clumsily strummed chords. Rumours of sex, frenzied gatherings, teen runaways.
Was there a warning, a sign of things to come? Or is Evie already too enthralled by the girls to see that her life is about to be changed forever?
Here’s how it starts…
I LOOKED UP because of the laughter, and kept looking because of the girls. I noticed their hair first, long and uncombed.
Then their jewellery catching the sun. The three of them were far enough away that I saw only the periphery of their features, but it didn’t matter—I knew they were different from everyone else in the park. Families milling in a vague line, waiting for sausages and burgers from the open grill. Women in checked blouses scooting into their boyfriends’ sides, kids tossing eucalyptus buttons at the feral-looking chickens that overran the strip. These long-haired girls seemed to glide above all that was happening around them, tragic and separate. Like royalty in exile.
What do you think – would you keep reading?
Emma
Note: this is from a proof copy
One Readers Thoughts 
I have this to read and looking forward to it!
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I hope you enjoy – I am so far!
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I know what you mean about all the buzz! Sometimes that makes me nervous, but I do want to read this book. Glad to hear it’s good so far.
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It does tend to put me off or make me wait to read but I’m glad I went for it.
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I have a copy of this one, and was drawn to it because of the reminders of that time in my life when all seemed beautiful and peaceful…until it wasn’t.
I love your book’s cover more than mine. I am hoping to start this one soon. Thanks for sharing…and here’s mine: “CLOUDS IN MY COFFEE”
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Did you get the one with the red face? I saw that on goodreads and don’t know if I’d have asked for a copy of it was that one because I hadn’t heard much about it. It’s quite dark a cover I think.
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Yep, I keep on reading. Hope it lives up to the hype.
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I’d love to read this one. Keep reading!
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I have been and am really enjoying it…different than I expected but in. Good way.
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I really do want to read this one – the synopsis had me intrigued and I love the opening – great choice Emma!
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So far, I would say it’s one I’d recommend…I have a third to go and hope I’m not disappointed!
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After one paragraph and I’m interested. I haven’t heard all the hype so I can honestly say I’d like to read it because it looks good. I do hope you continue to enjoy it.
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I have tried to avoid as much as I can about it because I don’t want any expectations- so far I’m really enjoying it.
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I’d definitely keep reading! The blurb really reminds me of the whole Charles Manson story with the girls on the ranch. That definitely makes me curious!
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I think it’s supposed to be based on the true story but I daren’t read more about the book until I finish it.
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This is a new to me title. I’d read a bit before deciding whether it’s for me.
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I got pulled in by the cover and then read it was getting good reviews and I have to say so far, I’m glad I did. It’s very well written.
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I would keep reading. I liked the blurb and intro.
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It’s been good so far so I’m glad I carried on reading.
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[…] wise, I finished The Girls by Emma Cline (see my Tuesday Intro for more details) but still don’t feel I’ve left the book behind – it’s […]
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