If you enjoy complex characters and like stories that feel true to ...
937132
A brillant and thought provoking book that probes the inner workings of a teenage mind. Give this book a read and you'll gaiin insight into a teenagers mind. Well executed and a page turner. Chrissy really plots a unique story worth reading. If you enjoy complex characters and like stories that feel true to life give this a read.
169936
These stories have a pretty bleak vibe that cuts into the book's enjoyable aspect - especially read all at once. However, the characters are so lifelike and behave so realistically that I felt connected to their experiences, harsh as they were. Another reviewer pointed out McCracken's best skill, which is creating that sense of empathy in the reader.

Ultimately, that's why the collection works - it's not "downbeat," simply for the sake of tragedy. Rather, I was empathetic toward these fictional people and the sadnesses they encountered. Fiction yes, but these stories speak to the human experience.

I'm not sure I'd suggest reading this book straight through. I think the stories might work better one at a time, with a chaser of something more escapist...but that's not how I read.
575647
These are actually one continuous story, characters so real, their lives stay with you. It cries for a sequel.
A strong sense of place, Lives intertwined with empathy and spirit.
1730730
I am a voracious reader that loves being invited into authors' inner worlds. However, it seems to be getting harder to find stories that make me want to do something with them besides quietly enjoy them. This is one of those really rare ones that will have me recommending it to everyone I know and many people I don't know too.

i recommend reading this book because all of the characters have normal and abnormal traits that are beautifully revealed. The author uses conflict to build upon those traits in realistic ways that enables the reader to experience a wide range of emotions. However, it is the relationship between the two main characters that was well worth my time.

This may be a work of fiction, but the depth of the character development and the richness of the storytelling make it believable on many levels. I hope you will take some quality time to enjoy this story for yourselves.
2447617
A wonderful book full of complex characters. This book provides a lot insight into the lost or homeless fragments of our society. We are much more complex than many think, and this book captures the rich and complex world that some homeless or outcast Americans live in. The writing is rich and detailed, the story strong and the characters deep and believable.
1809084
Each story takes you by force. The prose is so crisp that there were pages  where I highlighted half the sentences. Realistic characters that make you feel for them in a very human fashion.
1247782
Stellar writing immerses you not only in this long past world, but in the mindsets of two very different women who are very much aware of themselves and the dichotomy of their thoughts, actions, and place in their present society. There are no clear cut heroes or villains, although many characters take actions where you know they know better, but you still root for them and/or don't root against them. It's a nicely complicated romance saga with a bit of mystery and thriller thrown in that leaves enough threads for you to want a sequel but enough closure where you can accept where things stand.
877932
While I tend to enjoy a little more intrigue, this book surprised me with how enthralling a character/relationship-driven story can be. The characters were believable and relatable, and I found myself yearning for the relationship to move to the next step, as much as the characters seemed to yearn for the same thing. This is a hallmark of good storytelling to me: where I feel the emotions leaking off the pages. Will be reading more of this series. I voluntarily reviewed a book received through a free offer.
114387
I just finished this book of short stories and felt quite sad to see these mini-universes go.

Each story is rich in description and evocative in emotions, transporting to you a different place with every tale. Where there are definite and strong themes that run though out this author's work, the subject matter is varied enough to keep one guessing about where the next short will be set and what will happen.

There are also quite a few twists of plot line, which wouldn't make much of a difference except that in such a short time, you've somehow become invested in these characters and truly care about these turns in the story line. This is simply a testament to the talent of the author, who is able to bring the reader to a place of caring deeply about characters that you've only known for such a short time.

I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a series of short stories that will not only entertain, but will evoke truly emotional responses for these short lived story lines.
4908954
The characters come alive in this book. The theme that hit a very definite cord for me: if there's something that really weighs on you, attempt to resolve the issue. Don't wait until it's too late or you'll regret it forever.

plot - some twists
mood - hopeful
pace - fast
characters - complex
1629124
There are  many characters who are related among them. The author through  Vivid descriptions  makes the readers feel the  environment  of the  story.
4058313
You feel like the characters are real and could be neighbors or friends.  You feel their emotions and hopes.  I will definitely locate more books by this author.
137971
You can finish this set of stories in one sitting because that's how much you keep wanting to hear from these little bizarre worlds that Pappas creates, or you can let the characters of each story sit and fester with you, like I did over the course of a month.  In just a few sentences each new story had me immediately transported and all at once shaming or celebrating the next protagonist.  And I say fester in the best way. Even with short glimpses into their realities - like in The Will, my favorite story - you know that there is a whole back story, upbringing, or world calamity that has caused a particular turn of phrase used specifically at the moment by that character.  The intentionality of this writing is wonderful and will keep you reading.
3710761
Interesting enough story with some complex characters.
2805919
Sara's writing comes from place of compassion and warmth. The character portraits are compelling and provocative. You feel like you know the characters personally after a few paragraphs. Each story works its way to a perfect ending that leaves the reader aching for more. More interactions, more adventures, more connections. This is a beautiful collection of stories to snuggle up with on a Saturday afternoon.
2372254
A series of short stories with characters that are very complex and well developed despite the fact that these are short stories.  Various topics and plots with plenty of twists and surprises that keep you turning the pages from one story into the next.  I will be checking out some of this author's other works.
204840
Perhaps some of the most realistic and relatable characters in fantasy! Do yourself a favor and give it a read