ktoreilly 's review for:

Open, Heaven by Seán Hewitt

3.25

emotional reflective sad slow-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: Complicated

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: No

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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The prose and language was so beautiful, almost mesmerizing at times. However, I struggled with feeling like I missed out on seeing most of James and Luke’s relationship, since oftentimes we would skip over time or dialogue in favor of summarizing. I understand that the focus was more on memory and love and adolescence and desire, but I wanted more connection on the page. We spend so much time in James’ head, that it was hard to know Luke at all outside of James’ fantasies about him. By the end, it felt more unhealthy obsession than just teenage desire, to be honest… like, you should definitely see a therapist if you’re thinking about your adolescent crush from 20 years ago on your wedding day.