Reviews

The Bridges of Madison County by Robert James Waller

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kimmyp's review against another edition

3.0

I like the story, but wasn’t a fan of how it was told. It was a bit cringy at times and it’s been a long time since I saw the movie, but I bet I would still prefer that to the book.

chelebrity91's review against another edition

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emotional reflective sad fast-paced

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

3.0

Good story. Quick. Sad.

ampetersen25's review against another edition

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emotional 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? No

4.0

olivia_holmes's review against another edition

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emotional sad fast-paced

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

5.0

bemain's review against another edition

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3.5

Vackert skriven, nästan lite poetisk. Väldigt fin och sorgsen berättelse.

rereader33's review against another edition

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3.0

I have conflicting feelings regarding this novel, but I'll try to express them as best I can.

First and foremost, the uncomplicated stuff: the writing is really solid, flowed really well, and the pacing matched the flow well. A story like this could have been dragged out longer, made more dramatic, darker, but it wasn't. It was short, light, and an enjoyable read on these merits alone.

Now to the complicated portion: this is a story where I can feel when something is supposed to be emotional, supposed to tug at my heartstrings, and it just never did. It took some pondering on my part, but I think what is boils down to is that this story makes the romance seem unreachable. Both Francesca and Robert are painted as lyrical, otherworldly beings and while I get what the author is trying to say, if you paint your characters as such, its harder for me to connect with their romantic connection. It also doesn't help that Francesca gives off "not like other girls" vibes and Robert gives off "not like other guys" vibes, which made me roll my eyes frequently. To me, the romances that strike a cord with me are the more grounded ones; no idolization, no waxing poetic, just two compatible people that love each other.

All of that being said, I would be lying if I said I didn't enjoy this book. It was a really solid read and I do recommend it anyone looking for a short romance story.