Adalina Mae

STORY-LINE NOTHING IS PREDICTABLE BY ADALINA MAE:

Nothing Is Predictable, full of emotion and angst, follows Zara through life from America to Lebanon and back. Born to Christian parents in America, Zara see's life from both sides of the fence. Moving back to Lebanon as an infant, Zara lives a life of abuse and mental cruelty.

Following the effects of an alcoholic father, an abused mother, and pedophilia from neighbors, Zara presses on for the answers to a happy life. Struggling her whole life, with child memories and abuses, Zara's journey is any thing but smooth. My review of contemporary novel, Nothing is Predictable, follows.

CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, DEVELOPMENT:

Author Adalina Mae, crafted an intriguing and insightful story-line in Nothing is Predictable. Although not my cup of tea, for the right audience this book will be a winner as the author presented an in-dept, insightful look into life and event results. The prose, composition, and structure of the story-line's skillfully; with easy to follow writing. Written in first person, the reader's treated to an in-depth look into the life of a strong woman whose life has been one issue after another. Mae's pacing of the book was a little slow in spots, it picked back up and rolled on. As a result, the reader's allowed entry into the thoughts and life, as it was led and seen, through Zara's eyes. Showing the reader the consequences of childhood events, Mae dramatically details Zara's life and her search for the ultimate answer to happiness and life.

This is a story of growth, forgiveness, and letting go. Detailing the events which made Zara who she became, Mae demonstrates we can not escape our past, but must learn from it. How can we, safe and secure with loving families, in a safe secure environment ever understand what Zara's life had entailed. Mae has given us a picture of that life and what it takes to let go and hold on.

NOTHING IS PREDICTABLE RECOMMENDATION: STARS 4

I found the plotting in line with the length of the book, the composition good, the writing clear, and the story-line intriguing. Suitable for young adults and adults your enjoy a look into shattered lives, the outcome of living that life, and finally finding the ultimate answer to living to the fullest.

Finally, please note:

Additionally, I received a copy of this book from the author. I voluntarily chose to review the book with an honest novel review. Hence, book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion. Consequently all book reviews on-line and on my blog, are my opinion. No one influenced my review of this book.… (more)

This book reads like a memoir. I had to keep reminding myself that Zara (the protagonist in the book) is not Adalina (the author). However, some of the book is indeed based on true events. So, which parts?

This book was not really my “cup of tea”. However, it was impossible not to like Zara and to be able to relate to her struggles. I think most women will be able to relate to her.

Zara was born in Los Angeles to Lebanese parents. Her childhood is somewhat veiled as she had multiple sexual molestations, one of which is she unable to recall. Her now-deceased father, while pampering his “princess” was also an abusive alcoholic. Zara has one disastrous relationship after another with men. Zara must confront her feelings regarding her father before she can find peace.

The writing flowed smoothly, as if I were reading Zara’s journal. I followed Zara’s travels from the US to Lebanon to Switzerland to Italy. She was quick to fall for men, especially gorgeous men. She was vulnerable and used by some, loved by some, hurt by them all. At times I wanted to wipe away her tears, or slap her and tell her to grow up, or have some wine and get drunk with her.

While not my “cup of tea” I still found the book to be enjoyable. It did keep me interested, wondering what she will be up to next.… (more)