A review by saradoxical
The People We Keep by Allison Larkin

adventurous emotional reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I'm not usually someone who pays attention to Content Warnings, but the underage/adult relationship in this book threw me, and made me severely uncomfortable. I believe that was the point, but before I review this book I wanted to mention that.

Otherwise, I loved it. Top ten, probably. A keep on my shelf for a reread book.

Book Riot included this  book on a list of overrated classics as what to read instead of On the Road and as someone who's tried and failed to read Jack Kerouac's classic? I was intrigued.

I loved April, and cheered for her throughout the book, finding the narrative real and sometimes painfully honest. Again, I wasn't a fan of one of her relationships, but it was still strikingly honest writing. April's life as an independent musician just trying to survive traveling from town to town reflects on the decisions we make in our lives, the what ifs that could drive us mad, and the people who become part of our stories along the way. If I had one other complaint?
The narrative wraps up too neatly, however I don't mind too much. I was rooting for April.


(A note: The rating I've given this book has increased, from my initial reaction to how it's sat with me. 5 stars, all the way.)
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