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A review by taylasfootnotes
The Parcel by Leigh Suznovich
dark
emotional
funny
sad
tense
slow-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
3.5
This debut didn’t hold itself back from discussing and exploring some of societies taboo topics of conversation. Leigh handled each of those moments with care and maturity. They weren’t glossed over, but rather provoking, especially as a person who is able bodied.
Lyra and Taran’s chemistry starts almost immediately. Lyra, who is going through a civil divorce, is shocked at the instant attraction. I mean, who wouldn’t be if you’re mourning the end of your marriage. Taran, the Golden Retriever boyfriend type, spends the vast majority of the book showing Lyra that he’s serious about her and their budding romance. Strap in, for you’re in for a long slow burn that takes the pair from Friendzone to Pound Town(this doesn’t happen until approximately 75% of the way through) . From that point, everything feels like it falls into place until a third-act breakup attempt, which felt like an attempt to create some kind of friction between the pair. Ultimately, it landed flat.
There are sections of this book that feel like Leigh was info dumping on the reader. This pulled me out of the story as there wasn’t a natural exploration into the backstory of these characters, rather large portions of inner monologue that told A through to Z of Lyra and Taran’s life prior to them meeting. It would have been more enjoyable to see them discussing these past events, or have these elements of the story unfold more naturally instead of starting a chapter with a huge chunk of information that, often, didn’t benefit the actual story.
Overall, I enjoyed this romance debut from Leigh. There were moments of tenderness, laughter and growth from both characters that felt genuine. I’m excited to read book two in this duet.
Lyra and Taran’s chemistry starts almost immediately. Lyra, who is going through a civil divorce, is shocked at the instant attraction. I mean, who wouldn’t be if you’re mourning the end of your marriage. Taran, the Golden Retriever boyfriend type, spends the vast majority of the book showing Lyra that he’s serious about her and their budding romance. Strap in, for you’re in for a long slow burn that takes the pair from Friendzone to Pound Town
There are sections of this book that feel like Leigh was info dumping on the reader. This pulled me out of the story as there wasn’t a natural exploration into the backstory of these characters, rather large portions of inner monologue that told A through to Z of Lyra and Taran’s life prior to them meeting. It would have been more enjoyable to see them discussing these past events, or have these elements of the story unfold more naturally instead of starting a chapter with a huge chunk of information that, often, didn’t benefit the actual story.
Overall, I enjoyed this romance debut from Leigh. There were moments of tenderness, laughter and growth from both characters that felt genuine. I’m excited to read book two in this duet.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Ableism, Child abuse, Chronic illness, Infertility, Infidelity, Medical content, and Death of parent