PLEASE LET ME DESTROY YOU

The cover of this book has to be the most disturbing, yet eye-catching images I've ever seen. But it perfectly captures the essence of this novel. The main character was unhinged, obsessive, a little off his rocker. There were times I was reading this and I didn't know what was going on and I loved every second of it.

This book was a whirlwind. I really enjoyed the writing style; it was quick paced and interesting. The voice fit the plot and the character as well. It progressed the story in such a natural way that I could read multiple chapters without noticing how long I had been reading. Additionally, I was sucked into a world of gangs and directors that I was subconsciously analyzing the book for its commentary on identity and social relationships.

The characters themselves were so interesting with distinct voices. The plot jumped back and forth between the present with the main character and the backgrounds of some of the side characters. I found this surprisingly easy to follow, and I know that it is thanks mostly in part to the individuality of the characters and Taylor's writing style.

If you enjoy struggling protagonists, a cast of crazy characters, and a plot reminiscent of a TV show, I recommend this book.

Thank you to the publisher for the e-copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

In a contemporary moment defined by endless hunts for Content (TM), we can find countless stories of individuals risking life and limb for their fifteen minutes (or is it seconds, now?) of fame. Taylor's novel here is a dissection of our culture which ties itself in knots in search of the Real and the True.

Rupert Taylor's debut novel, "Please Let Me Destroy You," is a darkly comic and chaotic tale that takes readers on a global journey through the eyes of Apollo Jones, a desperate young filmmaker. The book's premise is intriguing, promising a wild ride as Apollo embarks on a quest for the perfect content for his ambitious TV show.

The story kicks off with Apollo attempting to heist a casino in the Cambodian jungle, only to have a panic attack that derails the plan. This leads to a brutal punishment from his partners, who slice off his right pinky. Undeterred, Apollo bandages his stump and sets off on a search for stories that will take him from Saigon to Hollywood and back to the Cambodian jungle, where he may face even graver dangers.

Taylor's writing style is both a strength and a weakness. His prose is vivid and immersive, capturing the frenetic energy of Apollo's journey. The dark humor and absurd situations add a unique flavor to the narrative. However, the pacing can be uneven, with some sections dragging on and others feeling rushed.

Apollo Jones is a polarizing character. His desperation and misguided ambition make him both relatable and frustrating. He's a complex protagonist whose flaws and insecurities are laid bare for readers to see. However, his lack of self-awareness and self-sabotaging behavior can be grating at times.

The supporting characters are a mixed bag. Some are richly developed and add depth to the story, while others feel like caricatures or plot devices. The frequent shifts in perspective can be jarring, making it difficult to stay fully engaged with the narrative.

One of the novel's standout elements is its exploration of the dark side of artistic ambition. Apollo's relentless pursuit of his dream, despite the physical and emotional toll it takes, raises thought-provoking questions about the cost of chasing success. The themes of privilege, exploitation, and the often-blurry line between reality and fiction are handled with a deft touch.

However, "Please Let Me Destroy You" is not without its flaws. The story's chaotic nature can be overwhelming, and the frequent leaps in time and location sometimes make it hard to follow. Additionally, some readers may find the book's dark humor and visceral descriptions off-putting.

In conclusion, "Please Let Me Destroy You" is a bold and audacious debut that offers a unique reading experience. It's a book that will appeal to those who enjoy dark humor, complex characters, and a narrative that pushes boundaries. However, its uneven pacing and polarizing protagonist may not be to everyone's taste. If you're up for a wild ride and can appreciate the book's darkly comic tone, it's worth a read.