Killing Time

by Karl Williams
Killing Time cover
Good Books rating 3.78
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Waterstones
Paperback • £14.99
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  • ID: 2867
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
foyles.co.uk · Unknown · 2025-10-19
gripping 4.00

The reviewer found 'Killing Time' to be a gripping and intense thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The fast-paced narrative and well-developed characters make it a compelling read, though some may find the plot slightly predictable.

They were immediately drawn into the world of 'Killing Time' by its fast-paced narrative and intense atmosphere. The characters are well-developed, and the suspense builds effectively throughout the story. However, while the book is undeniably gripping, some of the plot twists felt a bit predictable, which slightly detracted from the overall experience. Overall, it's a thrilling read that fans of the genre will likely enjoy, but it might not surprise those who are familiar with typical thriller tropes.

Quick quotes

    The tension is palpable from the first page

    The characters are well-developed and engaging

    The plot is fast-paced but sometimes predictable

ebay.co.uk · Unknown · 2025-10-19
enjoyable 4.00

The reviewer fell in love with David Sedaris's humor and wit, particularly in his personal essays. While they enjoyed the stories in 'Barrel Fever,' they found the essays more compelling and representative of Sedaris's unique voice.

The reviewer first discovered David Sedaris while staying in a youth hostel and reading 'Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim.' Initially confused by the narrative, they soon appreciated Sedaris's sharp, witty prose and his ability to capture the eccentricities of his family and surroundings. 'Barrel Fever,' Sedaris's first book, includes both stories and essays. The reviewer found the essays, such as 'Diary of a Smoker' and 'The SantaLand Diaries,' to be particularly engaging and representative of Sedaris's talent. The stories, while diverting, often featured unpleasant characters and scenarios that grew tiresome over time. The reviewer concluded that Sedaris's strength lies in his personal essays, where his unique blend of humor and insight shines.

Quick quotes

    The trouble with aggressive nonsmokers is that they feel they are doing you a favor by not allowing you to smoke. They seem to think that one day you’ll look back and thank them for those precious fifteen seconds they just added to your life. What they don’t understand is that those are just fifteen more seconds you can spend hating their guts and plotting revenge.

    The editor of Giantess called to say he’d received my letter and thinks I might have potential. He introduced himsefl as Hank, saying, “I liked your story, Dave, but for Giantess you’ll need to drop the silly business and get straight to the turn-on, if you know what I mean. Do you understand what I’m talking about here, Dave?

    There’s no wonder that Sedaris pursued the personal essay for all his subsequent collections. Who knows how much is fiction and how much is genuine autobiography, but the blend is clearly where Sedaris excels.

kobo.com · Unknown · 2025-10-19
mixed 3.33

The reviewer found some essays in 'Barrel Fever' to be forced and lacking the punch of Sedaris's other works, while another appreciated Sedaris's unique perspective and storytelling, despite preferring his essays over his short stories. A third reviewer enjoyed the book immensely, finding the stories deeply personal and well-translated.

One reviewer felt that 'Barrel Fever' was a bit of a letdown compared to other works by David Sedaris. They mentioned that some essays seemed to try too hard to be funny and lacked the impact found in his more popular books like 'Naked' or 'Me Talk Pretty One Day'. They suggested borrowing or buying the book used, as it might not be worth the full price. Another reviewer, however, enjoyed the audiobook version during their commute. They acknowledged that they prefer Sedaris's essays over his short stories, which is why they rated the book three stars. Despite this, they still found Sedaris's work better than not having any at all. A third reviewer, reading the book in a different language, found the stories to be deeply personal and unique, with a great translation that enhanced their enjoyment.

Quick quotes

    Another "bestseller" from the humorist; I bought this in blind faith only because it was a Sedaris. However, I admit I was a tad disappointed.

    This summer the bridge that makes my commute easy breezy and beautiful like a Cover Girl commercial is undergoing construction which has resulted in a Kelly that pretty much looks like this while trying to make her way into the city . . . . .

    اولین کاری بود که از سداریس خوندم. بسیار لذّت بردم از خوندن داستانهای کسی از بچگی یادگرفته بود به چیزها طور دیگه ای نگاه کنه.

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