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A review by lulyslibrary
This Close to Okay by Leesa Cross-Smith
dark
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Meet Tallie Clark, a divorced therapist on her way home from work when she spots a man at the edge of a bridge. She convinces the man to grab a cup of coffee and not make a terrible mistake. The man? only willing to say his name is Emmett. Over the course of 4 days, both find comfort and safety with each other. But is that safety just an illusion? Only time will tell.
This is my first time reading Leesa Cross-Smith's writing and the way she is able to create an atmosphere is astounding. Truly it felt as though you were being wrapped in a warm cozy blanket the entire time. Leesa was able to also give both Tallie and Emmett their own distinct voices which can be difficult to accomplish with a dual perspective novel.
Tallie as a character reminds me so much of myself. She is such a well-intentioned, inviting individual who can help others easily but struggles to help herself. Emmett was a difficult character to really warm up to but I feel as though that was intentionally done by the author to create the imagery of an individual who is closed off and lost in depression. The most unbelievable part of this novel is how Tallie just invites a complete, possibly dangerous, individual to stay in her home. However, I recognize that while some literary fiction is meant to be very realistic I feel as though the author creates this bubble of curiosity for readers that asks "but what if this did happen?". The ending had me completely frustrated in the best way! I craved and still do crave more from Tallie and Emmett's story.
This is my first time reading Leesa Cross-Smith's writing and the way she is able to create an atmosphere is astounding. Truly it felt as though you were being wrapped in a warm cozy blanket the entire time. Leesa was able to also give both Tallie and Emmett their own distinct voices which can be difficult to accomplish with a dual perspective novel.
Tallie as a character reminds me so much of myself. She is such a well-intentioned, inviting individual who can help others easily but struggles to help herself. Emmett was a difficult character to really warm up to but I feel as though that was intentionally done by the author to create the imagery of an individual who is closed off and lost in depression. The most unbelievable part of this novel is how Tallie just invites a complete, possibly dangerous, individual to stay in her home. However, I recognize that while some literary fiction is meant to be very realistic I feel as though the author creates this bubble of curiosity for readers that asks "but what if this did happen?". The ending had me completely frustrated in the best way! I craved and still do crave more from Tallie and Emmett's story.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Suicide, Suicidal thoughts, and Mental illness
Minor: Infertility