This Close to Okay: Book review

This Close to Okay: A Novel - Kindle edition by Cross-Smith, Leesa. Literature & Fiction Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

Book review

 

Title: This close to okay

Author: Leesa Cross-Smith

Genre: Psychological fiction/ Domestic fiction

 

What happens when two strangers meet unexpectedly and that meeting turns out to be a life changing moment? 

 

While driving back from work in a rainy evening, Tallie comes across a man who is about to take his life by standing on a bridge. She invites him for coffee to which he reluctantly agrees and then later to her house. Over the course of the weekend, Tallie gets him to open up. Eventually she realizes that he isn’t the only one who needs healing. The story illustrates the complex lives of both these characters, delving deep into their past, insecurities, vulnerabilities and idiosyncrasies. 

 

Set mostly set in Southern Kentucky, the writing is tender in many parts, touching upon the themes of mental health issues, grief, anxiety and loneliness. Alternating between the perspective of Tallie and the Emmet, the book brings to light the struggles that one goes through in life. You cannot help but warm up to both the characters as you get acquainted with their unique styles and their way of talking.

 

 The pacing initially is a little slow but picks up midway when the suspense begins to build.  Some of the instances are heartbreaking but  the author manages to intersperse humor and some uplifting moments. She also emphasizes on the importance of relationships, healing and forgiveness.  

 

This close to okay may not be an easy read. But it imparts a beautiful message of looking for signs and embracing the small mercies of life. 

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