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3.69 AVERAGE
3.69 AVERAGE
This short novel was sometimes heartbreaking, at other times hopeful, but always powerful and beautifully written! I was leery at first about the many characters all with their own challenges, perspectives, and emotions; however, the author manages to make it all flow together so seamlessly so I never felt confused or overwhelmed. There are some storylines that left me aching for more detail, but overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book which made me reflect, laugh,and cry with each turning page.
I’m surprised this book isn’t more well known. The writing is truly beautiful. Multiple times I would stop and reread a sentence because I enjoyed it so much. It’s hard to believe that this is the author’s debut novel. Granted, he’s a college English professor so he should know a thing or two about writing and it’s obvious he does.
This book has multiple storylines intertwined within a small town in Connecticut. Initially it took me a minute to recall who was who when beginning a new chapter related to one storyline that would also reference a character from a different storyline, but it got easier over time as I got to know the characters better. As the title suggests, the common theme throughout is Hope. Whether it is dealing with a sickness or grieving a loss, each storyline contains hope for a better future. There are heartbreaks but there is healing as well. I definitely recommend this one.
Excellent character story. I love when a book can blend several different perspectives into one novel and make me care about all of the characters. I loved reading about each and every person in this book. There’s plenty of loss and grief here, but there’s always hope underlying even the worst of circumstances. I thought this was the perfect read for this time of year. It makes me thankful for all of the people in my life and helps me remember that the ones I’ve lost will always live on inside me.
nothing better than a book about community. beautiful & i absolutely adore it
A good book if you’re looking for a good cry—enjoyed the way the storylines connected and the feel-good ending.
This is a beautifully quiet yet poignant story of heartache that is balanced by joy and hope. This character driven story features residents of a Connecticut town whose paths become intertwined. I loved the breadth of their stories. It made me feel like I was wrapped up in tenderness. Joella took these seemingly simple everyday moments in an everyday town and unraveled them in a relatable way. It just made me feel good. It's definitely a "warm hug" book.
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emotional
hopeful
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Death, Car accident
Minor: Addiction
sad
3.75 while I appreciate that the book ended with hope and some happiness, this one was a 90% constant kick to the gut.