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sparksofcuriosity's review
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
This book was my favorite of the three books I've read by this author. It’s a heartwarming story told in alternating chapters by Edith and Helen (estranged sisters) and Helen's granddaughter, Diana. It is a story about family (lost and found), grief, the haves and the have nots, determination, second chances, and legacy. It is as sweet as Betsy's strawberry ale. J. Ryan Stradal knows how to create a strong setting, and his writing is like comfort food. This would be a great choice for readers who love character driven family stories, flawed (but likable) characters, and up-lit/feel good fiction.
Content Warnings
Minor: Death, Car accident, Infertility, Miscarriage, and Death of parent
ericah31's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Miscarriage
jessiehans13's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
Content Warnings
Moderate: Cursing, Death of parent, Miscarriage, Alcohol, Death, and Infertility
Minor: Car accident, Chronic illness, and Dementia
hardy314's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Miscarriage, Death, Death of parent, Dementia, and Car accident
hansbookshelf's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
sad
slow-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
5.0
Through the use of chapters that read like mini-stories, Stradal tells a story that spans three generations and many, many glasses of beer and pieces of pies. I loved the strong female characters, and the cozy slow-paced story set in the Midwest a highly underrated part of the US.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death and Miscarriage
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