My take on: Bangkok Transit

There is an air of mystery behind that cover. A woman about to embark on a journey to Bangkok, is that it? What is pulling her there? Is someone pulling her there? But there is much more to the story than just one woman in Bangkok Transit by Eva Fejos.

Seven people are in a state of flux. Seven people are coming to Bangkok to sort out their past, present, and future. One is coming to learn about the place of her birth after being raised by adoptive parents in New York. One could be nearing the end of his life. A mother who has lost everything that matters. There is even more, but I don't want to spoil too much of the book.

I have to say it took me a while to sort out who was who in this book. Some of the chapters start in the past and end in the present, but I didn't see any transition between the two. I was left wondering who I just read about. I had to re-read some passages to keep everything straight. I don't hate books with a lot of characters, I would just like everything to have an easy flow. This a Hungarian-to-English translation and it's entirely possible something is getting lost in the translation.

Of all the characters, I think I connected the most with Lian and Paul. Lian is just 20 years old, she's coming to Bangkok to learn about her heritage. She grew up with loving adoptive parents but there is some strong force pulling her toward Bangkok. It's a journey she has to make alone. There is something mysterious yet inviting about the bustling streets of Bangkok. She's just starting out in life but has to sort out her past before she can move on.

Paul is a man who has spent life as an outsider. Coming to Bangkok is a last resort. Why? You'll have to read the book to find out! But the following words said to Paul stuck with me....

"If you travel to Thailand, you must open your soul."

But is Paul ready to open his soul? Life has been so much easier for him by just being a casual observer, but life has a funny way of working out. Circumstances beyond his control are forcing him to open up and experience a different side of life.

This book isn't perfect, no book is, but there is an emotional and tender side to it that many people can relate to.

Rating: Give it a try

Note: I received an e-book as part of a blog tour with Fictionella.