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A review by amandaacat
The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai

challenging dark emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

This was such a powerful and moving read. The author does an incredible job capturing the pain and heartbreak of the 80s/90s AIDS epidemic with honesty and compassion. The characters felt so vivid and real that I felt deeply connected to their experiences. I especially loved the way the story shifts between the height of the epidemic and 2015, offering a fresh perspective that deepens the emotional impact. Fiona’s reflections added a new layer that brought the earlier story to life in a beautiful way. I’m really glad I read this book—it stayed with me long after the last page. I’m glad to have read this book.
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