Reviews

The Smell of Other People's Houses by Bonnie-Sue Hitchcock

allison_sirovy's review against another edition

5.0

This is a beautifully written debut novel by Bonnie-Sue Hitchcock. To be honest, I didn't know if I would like it as the summary on the inside of the didn't hook me. I decided to take a chance and couldn't put it down. The characters are real and familiar, and the storyline of each character connects to the others wonderfully. I highly recommend this book.

wolfe212's review against another edition

4.0

real review: 4.3*

tildsy_24's review against another edition

emotional hopeful reflective sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

turningpageswithkate's review against another edition

5.0

I’ve never been so sad to see a book end and yet so grateful that I read it. This was perfection- an absolutely beautiful portrayal of a community in Alaska that ties together so seamlessly.

The poetic metaphors, the focus on sense of smell as a key to unlocking long-gone memories, and the beauty of connection.

If you do one thing for yourself, it should be taking some time to read this story.

suzannacaldwell's review against another edition

challenging emotional reflective sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

bookpanther's review against another edition

2.0

2 stars. This book had an interesting premise and setting, but the story overall didn't hold my interest. I wasn't a fan of the writing. It attempts to be lush and atmospheric, but for me, it felt overdone. The overuse of the word "smell" also put me off. I know it's in the title, but it seemed a little forced. Most of the characters weren't very compelling, but I did enjoy Ruth's POV (especially towards the end).

melinum's review

dark emotional hopeful sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

emilyfelker7's review against another edition

5.0

THIS BOOK WAS SO EMOTIONAL & MADE ME FEEL ALL THE FEELS. This book was absolutely perfect I just wish I had more & more & more from these amazing characters. The fact that I was able to connect & feel for these characters in just under 300 pages is incredible. Best book I’ve read this year!

_s_i_s_s_i's review against another edition

dark emotional reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

I rarely get a book 5 stars, but I was Incredibly impressed. Evocative imagery,  compelling  characters, and poignant emotional descriptions. 

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Content Warnings

Minor: Alcoholism, Domestic abuse, Sexual violence, Grief, Car accident, Pregnancy, and Injury/Injury detail

mackenziencheez's review against another edition

5.0

My only complaint is that I want more of their stories.