A review by annamariesreads
Close to Home by Michael Magee

challenging emotional hopeful reflective sad 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

3.75

I absolutely loved becoming absorbed in Belfast and it painted such a clear picture of the intergenerational trauma and the struggle of the working class, decades after the troubles. I visited Belfast not that long ago but the Belfast I saw was not the beating heart of those who inhabit it. This is what this book does really successfully.

I wish the plot moved on a bit because I wanted some answers but I appreciate the point Michael Magee was trying to make of how these people are frozen in time and are left behind with no real opportunity to confront their past. I appreciate that so much is unresolved and a culture of repression dominates. I usually like a more plot heavy novel and this was very much character focused. I enjoyed it for what it was nonetheless.

Sean is frustrating but likeable and I couldn't help but hope he gets it together 🤞
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