Finally, a book review. About time. 😬 I’ve been busy with my oldest starting preschool and us getting into a new rhythm. Sadly I didn’t get this out in time for its pub day on August 10th, but I got close. Thank you to Celadon Books and Netgalley for my gifted copy.
SYNOPSIS: The latest novel from bestselling author Barbara O’Neal weaves the stories of three women: 70-something Instagram influencer Gloria and her two nieces: struggling musician, Willow, and video game creator, Sam. When someone from Gloria’s past gets arrested for art forgery and theft, Gloria finds herself facing prison or a life on the run. Her nieces have their own troubles: Willow’s back from LA after a failed album and is tired of living in her late-mother’s rock-star shadow. Sam, on the brink of losing her video game company and estranged from best friend and former co-worker, Asher, struggles to keep her anger from overflowing onto those she loves. When Sam ends up in the hospital, the three of them must face up to past hurts and regrets if their futures are to involve each other. O’Neal threads together a compelling tale with the three viewpoints, treating readers to her usual delicious prose and accurate insight into human nature.
THOUGHTS: Overall this was an enjoyable read, but the depth of character and beautiful writing definitely outshines the plot itself, which I found slightly lacking. The pacing seemed a little off, and some of the backstory felt repetitive. That said, Barbara O’Neal is a great writer and her hard work is evident in everything she writes. It’s difficult to pull off three-dimensional characters the way she does. If you’re looking for a rich character-driven novel with relationship drama and good writing, this is a great pick.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
📷: Beth Rufener
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