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3.7 AVERAGE


3.25

This book started out strong but puttered out. I also had difficulty overlooking the ethical complications and issues.

I’m unsure whether reading this on the heels of “maybe you should talk to someone about that” affected my opinion and enjoyment levels

The book also oscillates between being unnecessary descriptive (cushions on chairs are described multiple times in great detail, for example) while other, more important parts of the story or background are glided over

3.5 stars. Love a good story about strangers helping and loving each other
emotional hopeful reflective
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
emotional reflective sad 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

This had the makings of a great book. The storyline, a psychologist stops a man from jumping off a bridge. They are pulled together and navigate the weekend in her home. I just didn't connect enough with the characters actions and reactions towards one another. For me, it was missing something within their conversations and interactions, however it was a fast read.
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murve's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH: 2%

As soon as Christianity steps in, I step out. 

Warning: suicide

I liked this. The "twist" in the second half was needed to shake it up, and I thought the ending was satisfying in that it fit the characters and didn't try too hard. This was ultimately about how people figure out who they are and how they want to make their lives.

A heartwarming story about the brokenness of humans and the power of comfort. It starts with a recently-divorced woman rescuing a stranger from a suicide attempt. The rest of the book follows their friendship which unfolds over a single weekend.

Despite the heavy subject matter, This Close to Okay was such a cozy read. It's set in October, around Halloween weekend, and is filled with instances of chilly rainstorms, candles, tea, and pumpkin spice. I only wish I had read it in the Fall!

The characters are likable, the plot is compelling and the writing is beautiful— almost poetic in parts. It loses a star because the central conflict could have been resolved if the characters had had a simple conversation. But then there wouldn't be a story! I was happy to be along for the journey of their relationship.
dark sad tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

It's been a very long time since I picked up a book, that I was in the middle of, intending to read a little before going to sleep and found myself needing to stay up until it was finished. This book had my heart doing summersaults. Do I wish I got more from the ending yes. Absolutely. But only because I wanted a little more recovery time from the very last heart dropping moment to spend with these characters I'd grown to love. But at the same time, I love the possibilities I have for them swirling in my head. Lessa Cross-Smith's prose beautifully sweeps through the entire thing casting cozy light into shadowy places, bringing surprises and candor to the dark moments we all have.