A review by katrinarose
Happiness Falls by Angie Kim

mysterious reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

After reading the masterpiece Miracle Creek in 2022, this was my most anticipated book for 2023, and Angie Kim did not disappoint. She has such a skill for writing a mystery that has intrigue and suspense without neglecting great character development, prose, and interesting themes/discussion, which is a problem I have with most mystery books I read. While this book was never scary, the way the narration references things that come later (saying things like “if I only knew at that moment”) builds suspense very effectively. 

I have to say my favorite part of this book are the characters, specifically the members of the family. Each one is so unique, and have such dynamic realistic relationships with each other. I love the flashbacks and asides that help us get to know them. Mia is probably the most realistic yet unique 20 year old character I’ve ever read about. So often adult authors seem to forget what young adults act like and Mia is a perfect blend of mature yet impulsive, intensely thoughtful yet still learning how to slow down and apply nuance, hard-headed yet soft. I can see how she may come across as annoying to some readers but I loved her personality. And her parents are given equal nuance which is often left out in young-adult narrated stories.

I don’t have any major complaints but I do think the mystery itself was the weaker part of the book, which doesn’t sound great but everything surrounding it is so well done that it didn’t matter to me. I’m so looking forward to anything else this author publishes!
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