A review by sugarbat
The Woods All Black by Lee Mandelo

challenging dark tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

I'm not sure a book this short could be classified as a a slow-burner, but it was. The book sustained tension in its entirety. I loved Leslie and his confidence navigating a small town with narrow-minded views, determined to help people that fought his help every step of the way, and hadn't really done much to earn it. That aspect definitely resonates with current times - covid denial and blocking access to reproductive care. I really enjoyed the darkness of this book, it felt like charcoal on thick paper, if that makes sense. The ending was extremely satisfying and beautiful. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings