A review by fearsomethings
The Dove in the Belly by Jim Grimsley

3.0

No rating for you, buddy. I don’t believe it to be fair because this whole book really felt like two people making mistakes and navigating the world the only ways they knew how to. That’s why I can’t compel myself to dislike Ben; even though he’s got this asshole behavior sometimes. Their relationship is so tender and fragile most of the book that I frequently hoped they didn’t end up together, but after witnessing how Ronny had become Ben’s support during his mother’s illness and the depictions of loss, I realized that this could’ve been any of us. Holding onto things we cannot have or that are not possible while yearning for them along with the anxiety, fear and fragility that comes with having what once we thought was impossible.

However, Ben was kind of a douche bag even before Mrs. Nickelsen illness and Ronny kept forgiving him. Amigo, date cuenta. As much as I want to say that I’m glad that everything worked out in the end, it didn’t feel as nearly as satisfying. Maybe it’s because in the sphere of queer literature set before the 2000s, stories are mostly depressing, tragic, and lonely. Therefore, I don’t think it was a dreadful experience once I got invested in the book.

Update: Hey, buddy 3 stars. Take it or leave it.

Update 2: Absolutely infuriating. The only thing I remember was how Tate? Idk called everyone that motherfucker JAJAJAJAJA hilarious