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Feb 02, 2019natcin7 rated this title 3.5 out of 5 stars
I decided to read this novel when I learned that Helen Mirren is starring in the forthcoming movie. I had no advance knowledge of the plot other than it was about a conniving old con man in the tradition of Patricia Highsmith's Talented Mr. Ripley. However, this novel is much more than that. The reader is transported back in time to past events in the protagonist's life that are tedious and somewhat confusing. I found myself wishing the author would get back to the present with the amoral con man, Ray, and the unsuspecting Betty. When we are introduced to Hans in 1940s Germany, the story is still not clear. Who is Hans and what does he have to do with Ray? Too bad the middle chapters were not more judiciously edited. It is not until the last chapters that it all becomes satisfying and crystal clear. A good read, but I'm guessing that the movie will condense the plot elements and make it more enjoyable.