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9.94k reviews for:

Us Against You

Fredrik Backman

4.42 AVERAGE

challenging emotional hopeful reflective sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
challenging dark emotional funny inspiring sad fast-paced
hopeful inspiring sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

First off, I have to say that I love (most) of these characters and their individual story arcs so much. However, too many elements were added to this sequel that I didn’t care for: politics, gangs, and side characters that come out of nowhere. I also felt that some of the darker themes of this book did not really get resolved, so I’m left feeling icky about how the people some of the people have done/said. All of this being said, I am invested in the series and will of course read the final book.
emotional reflective sad slow-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: Yes

Powerful. Tough. Insightful.

Another winner from Frederick Backman. While I found Beartown heavy in topic, and the sequel is not at all without it's heavy topics, there is a deep understanding of the nature of humanity that brightens the darkness. As with all of Backman's work, there is a strong "swedish nature" that comes through...something I can't put my finger on, but it is very definitely there. I will continue to be a huge fan, and look forward to his next book!
dark emotional slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

Expand filter menu Content Warnings

Ugh so so so good. Reminds me of the outsiders

I love the way that you have a chance to connect with multiple characters through a glimpse into their lives. This series grapples with really difficult subjects that most anyone can relate to, and it creates a tension while reading. The tension of the town and the characters keeps the story going and keeps the reader engaged. It’s not a happy story but I was so invested in the characters that I had to finish! The subject matter is hard to read, but that’s what makes the book so good.