Due to my short attention span, I have experienced commitment phobia when it comes to big books (those above 500 pages). The question which constantly haunts me is- “Manjiri, are you going to stay faithful to the book until the very end or cheat on it with another book?” Hence, I took this opportunity to list some of the brilliant novels which I fear getting into or haven’t been able to finish!

1. Game of Thrones series

The hype around Game of Thrones got real for me back in college. Seeing my peers, I, too, jumped on the Game of Thrones’ bandwagon and saved up enough pocket money to gift myself the whole series. The super ambitious reader in me was meant to finish these series before watching the TV show. But, the scary size of the books made me rethink my decision. (Nevertheless, these books do look beautiful sitting on my bookshelf.)

2. A Little Life

I have read polar opposite reviews about Hanya Yanagihara’s A Little Life! There is a section of readers who love everything about this novel, while the rest half can’t stand it. Ironically, this became the selling point for me! I was attracted to A Little Life, like iron filings to a magnet. Although I am super excited to do a deep deep dive, I have to admit- 720 pages are asking whole my attention to it.

3. The Talisman

I have had a love-hate relationship with Stephen King books. Back in college, when I tried reading a few, I just couldn’t. Nothing wrong with his books, I was used to the writing style. Now, the tables have turned and I can’t get enough, just freaking love them! So, when I went to a second-hand book store recently and swiped my card on this one. I haven’t yet read it because the thickness of this book had me scared.

 4. Sherlock Holmes

I was lucky enough to get the unabridged version of Sherlock Holmes stories at a discounted price while I went street shopping. I promised myself to read one story each day. However, that never happened as wasn’t ‘Sherlocked’ enough. So, now Sherlock Holmes just sits there on my shelf staring at me judgementally!

5. The Count of Monte Cristo

The Count of Monte Cristo and I had a sweet ( and short-lived) romance! I picked it up after seeing excellent reviews on Goodreads and Amazon. However, as I was 200 pages in and really enjoying the story, I got distracted with the other newer releases and left my dear Count halfway.

I would love to know if you have had a similar experience when it comes to big books!