Review of Randy the Irresistible
Posted: 03 Sep 2021, 18:10
[Following is a volunteer review of "Randy the Irresistible" by S M Goodier.]
Are you wondering if others are living like you? Struggling with studying, finding good-paying jobs and attempting to achieve successful careers? Well, S M Goodier’s, Randy the Irresistible, brings forth a highly relatable story to the average young adult. This novel explores the constant endeavours of early adulthood: loans, worthwhile university courses, stable well-paid jobs, independence and romantic relationships. Goodier conveys these struggles, experienced by many vicenarians, through the lenses of Randy Love.
The fictional novel explores themes, ideas and concepts related to the society and culture of young adults living in Britain. Readers are given an insight into how these individuals are constantly plagued with social, academic and financial obstacles that create their tumultuous lifestyle. The book's ability to connect with people, particularly university students and high school leavers, at a personal level makes it more intriguing and addictive.
Randy Love, is a college dropout and the youngest son and member of the Love family. The protagonist, born to parents in their fifties, is a charismatic, handsome and somewhat reliable employee. The book opens with Randy working as a customer service employee and follows his journey as he pursues a career in financial advisory. Along the way, he encounters numerous complications and makes nonsensical choices in an attempt to solve his problems. Randy’s ill-advised decisions often leave him in deep anxiety. His hopeless decisions may be a product of his overly confident personality. Although with his confidence, wit and charm he usually finds ways to successfully make small cash quickly, Randy repeatedly finds himself in a pickle. He leapfrogs from numerous houses, after moving out of his father’s home, and experiences the angst of being the victim of identity theft and fraud. Randy’s woes don’t end at this, his romantic life is also tested through his intimate interactions with women. He continually finds himself attracting older divorcées and has no problem flirting and sleeping around with attractive ladies. His behaviour towards women significantly affects his relationship with Nicky. However, Randy is not alone, he has friends and his siblings, James and Harriet, to provide moral and emotional support. Will their wisdom finally mature Randy and change his attitude towards women? Will he learn the importance of responsibility or will he time after time again run with his rampant illicit relations and irresponsible choices?
Although Randy’s character growth is disheartening, the setback does not severely impact nor halt the comical entertainment provided by the book. This is due to Goodier’s stylistic writing, which keeps readers engaged throughout the novel. The author cleverly creates satisfying events by combining a tad of blue comedy with serious situations countered with humorous solutions. These relieve the boredom and keep readers wanting to know what happens next.
What I like about this book is Goodier's ability to skillfully and exquisitely bring to life events and characters using an array of imagery, metaphors and witty dialogue. His writing allows readers to visualise and personally connect with Randy and his journey. Also, I loved how the author created amusing plots with clever use of literary devices that captivates and hooks readers right from its touching preface.
There are two significant things I did not like about this book. Firstly, I think Randy the Irresistible is missing a climactic point. I would have liked to read about an exciting climax that Randy encounters and needs to overcome. Also, Randy’s character transformation is minimal and void of any extreme development or growth. The inability to witness any drastic personal change to the protagonist's character makes reading about his journey rather bland. These two negative aspects had me forcibly rating the book three out of four stars and I would recommend this novel for all individuals who are confused and require navigation in the complicated and competitive world of adults.
This novel provides a sense of reassurance to young adults going through some of the most challenging, crucial and life-changing phases in their lives. Also, there is the use of foul language and sexual content that is suitable for a mature audience.
******
Randy the Irresistible
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Are you wondering if others are living like you? Struggling with studying, finding good-paying jobs and attempting to achieve successful careers? Well, S M Goodier’s, Randy the Irresistible, brings forth a highly relatable story to the average young adult. This novel explores the constant endeavours of early adulthood: loans, worthwhile university courses, stable well-paid jobs, independence and romantic relationships. Goodier conveys these struggles, experienced by many vicenarians, through the lenses of Randy Love.
The fictional novel explores themes, ideas and concepts related to the society and culture of young adults living in Britain. Readers are given an insight into how these individuals are constantly plagued with social, academic and financial obstacles that create their tumultuous lifestyle. The book's ability to connect with people, particularly university students and high school leavers, at a personal level makes it more intriguing and addictive.
Randy Love, is a college dropout and the youngest son and member of the Love family. The protagonist, born to parents in their fifties, is a charismatic, handsome and somewhat reliable employee. The book opens with Randy working as a customer service employee and follows his journey as he pursues a career in financial advisory. Along the way, he encounters numerous complications and makes nonsensical choices in an attempt to solve his problems. Randy’s ill-advised decisions often leave him in deep anxiety. His hopeless decisions may be a product of his overly confident personality. Although with his confidence, wit and charm he usually finds ways to successfully make small cash quickly, Randy repeatedly finds himself in a pickle. He leapfrogs from numerous houses, after moving out of his father’s home, and experiences the angst of being the victim of identity theft and fraud. Randy’s woes don’t end at this, his romantic life is also tested through his intimate interactions with women. He continually finds himself attracting older divorcées and has no problem flirting and sleeping around with attractive ladies. His behaviour towards women significantly affects his relationship with Nicky. However, Randy is not alone, he has friends and his siblings, James and Harriet, to provide moral and emotional support. Will their wisdom finally mature Randy and change his attitude towards women? Will he learn the importance of responsibility or will he time after time again run with his rampant illicit relations and irresponsible choices?
Although Randy’s character growth is disheartening, the setback does not severely impact nor halt the comical entertainment provided by the book. This is due to Goodier’s stylistic writing, which keeps readers engaged throughout the novel. The author cleverly creates satisfying events by combining a tad of blue comedy with serious situations countered with humorous solutions. These relieve the boredom and keep readers wanting to know what happens next.
What I like about this book is Goodier's ability to skillfully and exquisitely bring to life events and characters using an array of imagery, metaphors and witty dialogue. His writing allows readers to visualise and personally connect with Randy and his journey. Also, I loved how the author created amusing plots with clever use of literary devices that captivates and hooks readers right from its touching preface.
There are two significant things I did not like about this book. Firstly, I think Randy the Irresistible is missing a climactic point. I would have liked to read about an exciting climax that Randy encounters and needs to overcome. Also, Randy’s character transformation is minimal and void of any extreme development or growth. The inability to witness any drastic personal change to the protagonist's character makes reading about his journey rather bland. These two negative aspects had me forcibly rating the book three out of four stars and I would recommend this novel for all individuals who are confused and require navigation in the complicated and competitive world of adults.
This novel provides a sense of reassurance to young adults going through some of the most challenging, crucial and life-changing phases in their lives. Also, there is the use of foul language and sexual content that is suitable for a mature audience.
******
Randy the Irresistible
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon