The Sequel: A Novel (The Book Series, 2), Jean Hanff Korelitz, author; Julia Whelan, narrator
The author has masterfully told a tale that twists and turns on every page, keeping the reader guessing, although sometimes confused. There are so many bodies piling up with seemingly logical explanations, that one has to suspend disbelief, at times.
Anna Williams Bonner is a grieving widow. Her husband Jacob Finch Bonner committed suicide. He was a successful author, happily married, so why would he do that? His wife Anna soon also becomes a successful author, carrying on his legacy.
Both of them write novels that supposedly contain biographical themes, but Jacob achieved success by stealing a manuscript from a former student, Evan Parker, who coincidentally also committed suicide. Is there a danger that the plagiarism will come to light? What is Anna’s secret of success as an author? When the secrets are revealed, how are all these different issues connected in the novel?
The book raised many questions for me. If someone has harmed you, is it okay for you to harm them? If you only hurt those who hurt you, is that behavior justified? Can you still be a good person? In the end, does crime pay? Are some people simply evil? Does our past always influence our judgment in the future? Is it possible to forgive those who hurt you? Are some people simply beyond repair? Does everyone have the ability to commit a crime for personal gain or can everyone’s moral compass be compromised by the promise of a certain amount of personal reward or a satisfactory feeling of revenge? After reading this do you think crime might pay?
If I explain more, the story would be revealed. It is a novel about crimes, greed, grudges, twisted minds, lies, the desire for vengeance, and secrets that have been concealed for years. The reader will decide if the ending is plausible or satisfying.