A review by marisacarpico
Stray City by Chelsey Johnson

emotional reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

Heavier than the description made me believe, but not in a bad way. Very grounded in reality and characters who felt flawed in a real way rather than the fluffy rom-com I expected. There are times when I wanted to shake both leads, but it never judges them and I appreciate that about the writing. Imperfect people acting imperfectly. I was a little less interested when we added the kid’s perspective, but Lucia isn’t annoying or twee, so I appreciated the work here. Honestly reminded me of Gabrielle Zevin’s first adult novel, The Storied Lif of AJ Fikry in its construction and outlook. A little less heartwarming, but I liked how honest it felt instead.