I honestly don’t even know what to say… One thing’s for sure: I’m not the right reader for this book.

Right from the start, I wasn’t immediately pulled in. While I loved the concept—a secret nightclub, a new identity, freedom from the chains of everyday life—the execution fell flat for me. Andy Giles is, without a doubt, one of the most unlikable characters I’ve ever read. He lacks a backbone, has terrible communication skills, and refuses to self-reflect in any meaningful way—yet somehow, he’s still incredibly prideful. I kept hoping for some redemption, but it never came.

I stuck with it, partly because I was intrigued enough to see where it was going, but also because I was so frustrated that I needed to know how it would end. And when it did… it was abrupt and unsatisfying, leaving me wanting more (but not in a good way).

Honestly, this felt like a drawn-out story that could have been even shorter than its 200 pages. I started this review by saying I’m not the right reader because maybe there’s a deeper meaning I missed. But from my perspective, it just reads as a man who doesn’t know how to be a decent human being, refuses to communicate with his wife, and believes the grass is greener on the other side.

That said, I do applaud the author’s writing—it was well-crafted. Unfortunately, the story itself just wasn’t for me.

Thank you to NetGalley and Hanabi Press for the ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Thanks NetGalley for the arc!

I enjoyed this book! The plot hooked me in and I binge read it in 3 days. The author did a great job on building this other world that the main character stumbles into.

I did have a few qualms with this book. The characters felt one dimensional to me. I would’ve loved for the author to give them more of a backstory. I really could not get over the double standards in this book. It was actually really infuriating to read and left quite a bad taste in my mouth. Not sure if that was on purpose but the main character was also insufferable. There were a few scenes that felt really awkward and uncomfortable. I would’ve loved for more tasteful descriptions of the scenes. Ending felt quite rushed and I would’ve loved for the author to maybe expand on the ramifications of the main character. Again, the double standards at the end really annoyed me.

Overall I thought the plot was there. I just wish that the details were more thought out!

I went into this blind and I had an okay time with it. The writing was really good and I enjoyed the elements.

I am in a slump though so I will try again when I’m back into the groove and see if my ratings change, but for now it’s a 3⭐️. Whilst I did enjoy the writing and story, I just don’t know if this is for me.

I first came across Fragmented after seeing the author post about it online. The blurb immediately caught my attention, and the cover art by Böcklin sealed the deal. Between the title, the author’s name, and the eerie cover, I had a feeling this book would carry a certain Russian soul—and imagine my delight when I opened it to find a quote from Dostoevsky.

Andy Giles is drowning. His passion for teaching has faded into routine, and his marriage is crumbling under the weight of his wife’s suspected affair. So when a mysterious stranger invites him to Ralph’s—a private club that offers an escape from reality—Andy jumps at the chance to reinvent himself. Behind a mask, he becomes Hannya, throwing himself into reckless nights of hedonism. But what starts as a thrilling escape quickly turns sinister, forcing Andy to confront just how much of himself he’s willing to lose in pursuit of freedom.

I don’t know what it says about me, but I love a book where the protagonist slowly descends into madness. If you’re the same and enjoy that paired with a secret society backdrop, then this is the book for you. Andy’s transformation from a dull, disillusioned teacher into something far darker is both compelling and unsettling, pulling the reader into his unraveling psyche.

After reading a few other reviews, I have to disagree with the confusion surrounding Red’s character. There are key moments that make certain aspects of Red’s identity blaringly obvious in hindsight, and when the reveal happens, it all clicks into place. Another standout for me was the use of masks—both literally and metaphorically. The Hannya mask, in particular, was a perfect choice for Andy, tying into his character arc and the themes of the book beautifully. It made me wonder if all the masks held deeper meanings.

Overall, I really enjoyed Fragmented. It was an instant hit for me, but I do think it will appeal more to readers who enjoy literary depth over those looking for a straightforward thriller. Thank you to NetGalley and Hanabi Press for the early eARC—I’ll definitely be looking into Alex Mura’s other work.

I went into this completely blind, not knowing this author or his previous work. I was asked to read and review this Advanced Reader Copy on NetGalley. I'm sorry to say, I did not have a good time with this book. First, all the smoking (what is this, the 80s? and so much cocaine (again, 80?) plus a ton of alcohol. The main character was horribly unlikeable, or just plain horrible. The story had no meaning to me, and the end was so ambiguous I'm not sure what happened. Also when Red's identity is revealed I couldn't remember who on earth that was. For me this book was bleak and pointless. Very anticlimactic.

“ Fragmented" by Alex Mura is a thrilling, fast-paced ride that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The story follows a man determined to reinvent himself, only to find himself caught in a web of unexpected challenges and difficult choices. Mura's writing is gripping, and the suspense builds as the protagonist navigates a path he doesn't fully understand. With every twist and turn, I found myself unable to put the book down, eagerly anticipating what would happen next. A must-read for anyone who loves psychological drama with high stakes.