I have been lurking in this sub for a bit, and I have seen many criticisms of books because the reader dislikes what they consider misogynistic elements, or racist, sexist, homophobic elements. My question is, can a book be good/great, even if the author makes you feel uncomfortable? Why does the author’s style, or a character need to prescribe to a specific concept of morality to be an acceptable read?
Personally, I don’t understand why certain language or topics are a no go for folks. If a story is good, it shouldn’t matter. I also think reading things that don’t align with your beliefs, is generally a great way to expand your mind, and make you a wiser person.
I really love the harry bosche books, and the first few are some of my favourites. But the black echo is so casually homophobic and transphobic I found it very uncomfortable to read through.
Connolly got better with this as the series went on, but some other books in his collection have this problem. I won’t deny it’s a great book and the language could have the benefit of the doubt of being “of its time” but nevertheless I still found it uncomfortable.