A review by bookmaddie
A Tiny Upward Shove by Melissa Chadburn

challenging dark sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

I only vaguely knew about the subject matter of this book before going in, and I think it's definitely one that deserves a more detailed understanding of trigger warnings before beginning. Because, dang, this book is dark.

I knew it revolved around a girl named Marina and her killing by a serial killer in Canada, but I didn't realize how much darker and sadder the story would get as it delves into Marina's past and how she wound up at the hands of such a horrible man. And while so many horrible things are told within these pages, Chadbum writes with tenderness, understanding and hope.

Outside of subject matter, I did have a bit of trouble getting into the story.  It took maybe 30% of the book for me to start getting into it and reading at a steadier pace. I think Chadbum's writing just didn't connect with me as much as I wanted it to. And maybe also had to do with the fact that a lot of the early narrative is about Marina as a young girl (below 11ish), and I feel like I don't enjoy narratives that focus on young children as much. When she got a bit older, I got more interested in the story.

I also thought the story might be a bit more mystical (and lyrical in the writing), so I think that threw me off a bit.

More of a 3.5 for me, but definitely one to pick up if you're interested in the premise! 

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced digital copy for review.
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