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Rating: 
Summary: Somewhat tasteful, but definitely predictable
Review: For the most part, this was an "average" novel. Murray has a way of mesmerizing the reader with her use of words and references to actual works of art and literature; diving into the hidden meaning behind all of our "animal instincts" and motives/hungers. As much as the reader would like to side with their morals, it is hard to argue with the main character's (Katherine) reasoning for the thirst of gore and blood. You have no excuse but to accept the main theme of cannibalism as acceptable through her eyes.
None of the characters are given reason to be cared for exceptionally, including Katherine--altho you have to admire her in-depth knowledge and ferocious attachment to symbolism. Not any one character is likeable. Nor is any event in the storyline misleading (maybe it should be), as the entire plot is very predictable, even after the climax.
The trickling of events do no justice to keep you in suspense, as any reader would already know what the inevitable is. The ending brings the components together, but they were already there without being spelt out.
Altogether, this novel was okay. The blood-thirsty theme of it keeps you enthralled to continue reading, but the ending may just leave you wanting more or regretting its reach.
Rating: 
Summary: "Unlikable Heroine" equals brilliant novel
Review: I don't understand why someone believes that an "unlikable" heroine equals an unlikable book. It isn't critquing the work or valid criticism; it is instead an oversimplified and childish approach to literature. Such readers would probably dismiss "King Lear" as too depressing and therefore not worth reading. Murray's novel is a dark and brilliant treatise on cannabalism disguised as an equally dark and brilliant novel about a young woman's search for identity. I found Katherine, in fact, to be a deeply empathetic character. Who hasn't gone through a part of their life feeling aliented and alone, certain every relationship will end badly? Most of the reviews of this novel dwell on the question of whether or not Katherine is a likable charcter. It is a sad state of affairs indeed when whether or not a character in a novel is likable is used to decide the quality of the book. I only hope that most readers will see past such simplistic criticisms and enjoy the novel for what it is. Murray has written a wickedly entertaing book and has crafted an intriguing heroine. Highly recommended.
Rating:
Summary: Suspenseful, compelling dark comedy
Review: The heroine of this compelling dark comedy, Katherine Shea, is unlike any other character in American literature (or World literature, for that matter). Consider her the smart and strange god-child of Angela Carter and Paul Bowles--or Milan Kundera and Jane Bowles. Funnier and more intelligent than--but just as cunning as--Patricia Highsmith's Ripley, with her wry tone, her brilliant meditations on art and exploration, and her fast-paced, sexy, and intimate narration, Katherine will fascinate you--and at times she will frighten you. This novel is a page-turner, and its engaging narrator tells her story with a sense of humor and the confidence to explore any taboo subject. Read it--quickly.
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