A review by chrissiedcohen
Go as a River by Shelley Read

adventurous emotional inspiring reflective
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes

4.5

This is a sweeping story, a coming-of-age story, a love story tinged with tragedy (first love, a mother’s love, love of family made & chosen). The book takes place in Colorado in a small ranching town from 1948-1971. Life is not easy for the people living off the land in Iola, Colorado. Victoria had responsibilities thrust upon her when not even quite a teenager (managing the cooking, washing, cleaning, etc.) in a household of men; her father, brothers, & uncle. At 17, she makes some choices for herself that ultimately change the course of her life. 

Beautifully written with abundant details of the lush fields, farms, & forests. The characters are complex & well-developed. 

I removed a half star for two reasons:
1. I would have appreciated an Author’s Note with a bit more information on the now non-existent town of Iola. I had no idea that the fate of this town was based in fact. 
2. The ending left me hanging and wanting to know more. Will there be a sequel?
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