Wow, that ending! Let me start by saying that this book will not be for everyone, but it will undoubtedly leave you pondering long after it’s ended. Upon completing the book myself, I revisited the final pages multiple times to grasp the conclusion and what had transpired. Based on what I’ve read from others online, I wasn’t the only one left bewildered and asking, “what the hell just happened?”
The book opens with the story of an anonymous young woman who embarks on a road trip with her boyfriend, Jake, to meet his parents for the first time. Unfortunately, she plans to break up with Jake but has already agreed to the trip. As they journey towards Jake’s parents’ isolated farmhouse, it becomes apparent that both individuals are highly educated and avoid trivial conversation. Instead, they delve into philosophical concepts surrounding relationships and human thought. While this deep and somewhat pretentious dialogue may be a turnoff for some (we get it, you’re smart), it worked well for me and aided in character development.
As they drive, the unnamed protagonist starts receiving mysterious phone calls from an unidentified caller. However, she decides not to disclose this information to Jake and instead informs him that a friend is attempting to contact her. Once they arrive at the farmhouse, things begin to unravel, and the situation becomes more unnerving. Jake’s parents, while cordial, appear to have an inexplicable peculiarity about them. This is where the story takes hold, and the plot becomes increasingly eerie and puzzling.
I’m Thinking of Ending Things is a well-written, thought-provoking, and hair-raising book that will leave a lasting impression on readers. Iain Reid demonstrates his mastery in crafting dialogue that is both refined and extensively researched. As you delve into the story, you’ll undoubtedly feel uneasy with each page-turn. The book challenges the reader’s perception of reality and digs deep into the complexities of the human psyche. For those who appreciate psychological thrillers and are open to philosophical discussions, it is definitely worth picking up.