A review by kfmcf
Birds of California by Katie Cotugno

emotional funny reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

This book had a really solid trajectory through acts I and II, but then act III felt rushed and unfulfilling. Many of the more important aspects of the plot and character-driven moments were just brushed off and left unanswered. Was it a deadline thing? I'm genuinely sad because I was enjoying the first 150 pages or so.

I think as far as characters go, that is where this book excels. The side characters all feel real and living and enticing. You hear their stories. You feel for Fiona, all of shame and self doubt. Sam feels like a little less fleshed out, but still interesting. He feels more like a caricature at points and we aren't able to see in.


We should have had a moment with Sam and his grief of losing his ideal of Jamie. We had spent so much time in his head with Jamie as his idol.
We as readers also deserved more closer on Sam's life in general. How does he SURVIVE?! He is flat BROKE?!


Also like. I dunno. I needed an epilogue.
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