Water Music

by T.C. Boyle
Water Music cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Adventure
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  • ID: 10192
  • Added: 2026-01-16
  • Updated: 2026-01-16
  • ISBN: 9781783781409
  • Publisher: Granta Books
  • Published: 2014-10-02
  • Reviews: 3

Set in 1795, 'Water Music' is a vibrant and chaotic tale that follows the misadventures of two men as they navigate the gritty streets of London and the rugged Scottish Highlands. Their journey is filled with unexpected twists and turns, culminating in an improbable encounter in Africa. The novel is a testament to the spirit of adventure and the unpredictable nature of life, blending historical settings with a sense of humor and a touch of the absurd. /n/n The book's lively narrative and richly drawn characters make it a captivating read, offering a unique perspective on the late 18th century. With its blend of history, adventure, and humor, 'Water Music' is a story that will keep readers engaged from start to finish.

Reviews
A Life in Books · 2025-08-01
intriguing 4.50

The book is described as intriguing and quirky, with the reviewer finding it to be Boyle's best work. The narrative covers a lot of ground and is never bettered.

In a review from 'A Life in Books', 'Water Music' is described as an intriguing and quirky novel that stands out among T.C. Boyle's works. The reviewer finds it to be Boyle's best work, praising the narrative's ability to cover a lot of ground and explore various themes. The book's unique style and depth make it a memorable read, with the reviewer highly recommending it to others. The chaotic and engaging nature of the story keeps readers hooked, making it a standout piece in Boyle's repertoire.

Quick quotes

    Intriguing. I've read exactly nothing by Boyle

    He's very quirky, covers a lot of ground

    He's never bettered this one for me

Elle Thinks · 2021-01-17
chaotic 3.00

The book's frenetic energy makes it difficult to detect a clear narrative purpose. The chaotic style is both engaging and challenging.

One of the standout features of 'Water Music' is its frenetic energy, which drives the narrative forward at a rapid pace. This energy, however, can make it challenging to discern a clear purpose or direction in the story. The chaotic style is both engaging and frustrating, keeping readers on their toes but sometimes leaving them wondering about the overall intent. The reviewer appreciates the book's unique approach but finds it hard to fully connect with the narrative due to its erratic nature.

Quick quotes

    Water Music is defined by its frenetic energy

    it can be hard for the reader to detect a purpose to its narrative

    The chaotic style is both engaging and frustrating

Amazon · 2017-03-24
masterful 5.00

The book is praised for its masterful storytelling and engaging characters. It is seen as a great satire on the class system.

Readers on Amazon find 'Water Music' to be a masterful piece of storytelling, with T.C. Boyle's writing taking them on a captivating journey. The book is filled with engaging and well-paced characters that bring the narrative to life. One of the standout aspects mentioned is the book's delightful satire on the class system, which adds depth and intrigue to the story. The reviewer highly recommends the book for its rich and entertaining exploration of societal themes.

Quick quotes

    T.C. Boyle is a master storyteller

    The book is delightfully packed with characters

    A great satire on the class system

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