In the cover blurb for Bangkok Teardrops, the Author, Philip Mack, explains that he takes much of his inspiration for his writing from modern day relationships, and issues that arise by a twenty first century generation. Having read both Bangkok Teardrops, based on real events, and ‘This Past Year,’ I would agree that Philip has definitely developed a successful recipe for creative and thought provoking reads.
In Bangkok Teardrops the reader is introduced to protagonist, Archie (born in Scotland), who spends most of his time working offshore and travelling. On his vacation in Bangkok he falls in love with a Thai girl and is then taken on an emotional roller coaster ride as he not only must face and overcome the complications that arise due to the differences in their culture and working class, but her troubled past that surfaces and causes a further decline of her mental health. Mix all of these issues with the general challenges and difficulties of maintaining a long distance relationship and we have a truly fascinating and highly entertaining read. The plot moves forward at a good pace with plenty of drama and tension throughout.
Some readers may not be as receptive to the idea of love at first sight and a declaration of love after 30 minutes of meeting, however please do keep an open mind, and not allow this element to distract from the main topic and issues. It will soon become apparent as the reader delves deeper into the two main protagonist’s history and experiences as to why they feel this way. The author having developed these characters well, enabling that understanding and emotional connection with the reader to take place.
My only slight critique is that the author does move very frequently between different characters point of view, and so there is a lot of head hopping happening very quickly and close together, which is normally avoided by writers as it can confuse readers. However that being said this appears to be the Author’s preferred writing style and he does seem to manage this in a way that is not as confusing or disruptive to readers. Whilst I noticed this occurring, I still remained invested in the story and became used to this.
I have really enjoyed reading Bangkok Teardrops and I am therefore awarding 4.5 stars.
