readerjim 's review for:

The Listeners by Maggie Stiefvater

4.25

dark emotional mysterious reflective medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: No

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What happened at the start of WWII to all of the diplomats from the Axis countries? They were shipped off to hotels until they were traded to their home countries. This the premise of The Listeners, a wonderfully written, albeit bizarre take on this time in history. The main character is June, caretaker and manager of the hotel Avallon, situated in West Virginia. Working her way up, June comes to understand much about the hotel, especially the magical sweet water that courses through the pipes. I was conflicted at first; but some intriguing stories, surprising twists, and written that was so well done kept me with it.