The Final Testament - The review

Upon first picking up this book I expected the same rush of emotion and instant connection I felt when I read my first James Frey novel, A million little pieces. I soon figured that this was a gravely different experience. My first encounter with the book left me feeling as though James had maybe missed the mark on this one (although I would never have said this to anyone) but, like all his other novels I came to find that brilliance I have come to love about Mr. Frey.

I found myself seeking out the protagonist, Ben, amongst the people I come across on a daily basis and this was not only fun but, it brought me to the realisation that we all have the capability to create love and loving situations in our existences and that no matter who you are or what you do, we all have deep insecurities and a desperate want for love and bliss in our lives. I also came to learn from this book that the burdens we carry on our shoulders are often self-imposed and can thus be alleviated by only ourselves.

I did have moments where I failed to believe or buy into this narrative as at times I felt as though James was trying to sell me a view on religion (not sure if this his view but, a view none the less), as a firm believer in the concept of God as prescribed to by traditional Christians I found the book a tad blasphemous but, then I made a decision to interpret it solely on the bases that it is a novel and I allowed the story to carry my interpretations moving on as opposed to giving the beliefs written in the text to carry any weight. Once I had done this I found it extremely difficult to put the book down even if just for a smoke or toilet break. I loved the tiny bits of horror, suspense and sometimes even humour I found capsuled within all the salacious content and captivating drama.

James always manages to kill me, dead, with his endings and this book’s ending was no different. I sat in a taxi on the verge of an emotional breakdown, halfway in tears. This is however, one of the main reasons I love this man’s work, he has the ability to make me feel. The Final Testament is more than just a good read this, it is a journey that allows the reader to question one’s self and purpose.

I love this book almost as much as I loved A Million Little Pieces and I would recommend it to any and every one looking to enrich their state of being.

James Frey forever!!!