The Incendiaries
The Incendiaries
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Brief
214
Novel • Fiction
2010s
2018
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Incendiaries by R.O. Kwon follows students Phoebe Lin and Will Kendall at Edwards College as they become involved with John Leal, a charismatic cult leader. The novel explores their relationships, personal traumas, and the impact of Leal's influence. Sensitive topics include trauma, cult dynamics, and sexual violence.
Mysterious
Dark
Melancholic
Emotional
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
25,873 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
R. O. Kwon's The Incendiaries is lauded for its lyrical prose and complex exploration of faith, love, and loss. Many appreciate the deep, nuanced characters and intricate narrative structure. Criticisms include a fragmented storyline that may confuse some readers and an abrupt ending that leaves questions unanswered. Overall, it’s a compelling but polarizing read.
Who Should Read The Incendiaries?
A reader who enjoys The Incendiaries by R. O. Kwon would likely be intrigued by complex character studies and themes of faith, loss, and radicalization. Fans of contemporary literary fiction, especially those who appreciate the introspective nature of Hanya Yanagihara’s A Little Life and the emotional depth of Celeste Ng’s Little Fires Everywhere, will find this novel compelling.
25,873 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
214
Novel • Fiction
2010s
2018
Adult
18+ years
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