Answered Prayers: The Unfinished Novel : Book Review

"Answered Prayers" by Truman Capote is a novel published posthumously that delves into the scandalous lives of the high society elite. Comprising of three excerpts from an unfinished novel, the book presents separate stories set in the 1970s, exposing the secrets and betrayals of the wealthy and famous.

The first story, "Unspoiled Monsters," follows the protagonist, P.B. Jones, as he navigates New York society. Capote's storytelling is exceptional, filled with sharp wit and biting social commentary that reveals the superficiality and moral decadence of the upper class. It is a captivating and shocking narrative that leaves readers eager for more.

In "Kate McCloud," the second story, Capote focuses on the titular character, a wealthy socialite. He skillfully captures Kate's emotional struggles, her search for happiness, and her complex relationships. With vivid descriptions and insightful observations, the characters come to life and draw readers into their world.

The third and final story, "La Côte Basque," delves even deeper into the scandalous lives of the social elite. Capote unveils the hidden secrets and showcases the consequences of their actions, pulling back the curtain on their seemingly perfect lives. This story brims with glamour, decadence, and drama, captivating readers until the very end.

"Answered Prayers" serves not only as a captivating glimpse into the lives of the upper class but also as a critique of their actions and values. Capote's writing is exquisite, filled with poetic prose and sharp observations. Despite being unfinished, the book displays his incredible talent as a storyteller.

What are readers saying?

Truman Capote's posthumously published novel, "Answered Prayers," has garnered a range of reviews from readers. While praised for its captivating writing style and intriguing plot, the book has been criticized for being incomplete and lacking resolution.

One aspect of "Answered Prayers" that resonated positively with readers is Capote's remarkable writing style. Reviewers often commended his skill in crafting vivid and compelling descriptions that transported them into the decadent and glamorous world of 1970s high society. Capote's prose is frequently described as poetic, with its lush descriptions and meticulous attention to detail.

The book's plot, which revolves around the scandalous lives of the rich and famous, has also received praise. It delves into the dark underbelly of high society, exploring themes of betrayal, greed, and the extreme lengths some individuals will go to maintain their social standing. Readers found the storylines entertaining and engrossing.

However, a common criticism of "Answered Prayers" is its unfinished state. Capote unfortunately passed away before completing the novel, leaving three out of the planned six chapters unfinished. This disappointed many readers who had become invested in the story and its characters, as they felt a lack of resolution and closure.

Furthermore, some reviewers found the characters in "Answered Prayers" to be unlikeable and difficult to connect with. The excessive focus on the indulgences and scandals of the wealthy elite led to a lack of relatability for some readers, making it challenging to develop an emotional investment in the story.

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