Reviews

The Rose Garden: Short Stories by Maeve Brennan

likecymbeline's review

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4.0

Wish there were a way to note which of the short stories in a collection you've read, but barring that I'll say that reading this gave me a lot of insight into how I might construct a short story myself. I used to read a lot more short stories in high school and do so very rarely now. "I See You, Bianca" has been my favourite of what I've read and I wish I could keep a little copy of that on hand just for whenever I want it.

plnodwyer's review

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emotional funny lighthearted 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

5.0

savvyrosereads's review

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3.0

Maeve Brennan is a master of short stories. All in all, this was not my favorite collection (her Springs of Affection is much better, in my opinion, but it was still an enjoyable read. Brennan's prose is breathtakingly beautiful in parts, and there are several excellent reflections on topics ranging from the role and place of women, to emigration and immigration, to class boundaries and socioeconomic divisions. Perhaps not a MUST read, but certainly a very entertaining experience.

Rating: 3 stars
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