The Q

What could I possibly say about Beth Brower’s writing that hasn’t been said before? I dare say, she will never write a poor novel or a boring character arc. (And more incredible than that is the way that each of her books are utterly unique in both tone and genre. I honestly don’t know how she does it.)

Beth’s books are famous, yes, for their slow starts. But do not let her slow beginnings fool you: Beth Brower writes a compelling story.

The Q is by far the slowest of Beth’s books, but this is not a fault. Throughout this novel, Beth takes her time to establish her characters, settings, and relationships, so that, by the time they take off, you cannot help but be attached (embarrassingly so) to the whole of the story.

Quincy St. show more Claire is a fabulous protagonist. Not because she is particularly likable. Not because she is particularly unlikable. But because she is completely, and particularly, human. By the time Quincy’s arc takes off, it is impossible not to support her—one knows her too well, and is too fascinated by her, to do so.

Furthermore, James Arch is WONDERFUL. Rarely anymore do I find myself swooning over a love interest. Yet Arch’s relations with Quincy had me giggling and kicking my metaphorical (and literal) feet like a schoolgirl. Should the Good Lord give me a man like James Arch, I would not complain.

All-in-all, The Q is a slow and careful work of art, with unforgettable characters, heartbreaking losses (I actually cried—I don’t usually do that), and intimate friendships.This novel will no doubt have you considering your own relationships, and the companions who make life worth living.

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PRE-REVIEW:

I would read this woman’s grocery list if she’d let me. Heaven knows it reads like poetry. show less

This book is recommended on the Internet for those seeking good, clean fiction. It does qualify as clean, but I wish the recommenders had made clear that it is a romance novel. I adore all of Jane Austen's novels (for their style and wit and morality), but I don't care for the romance genre per se. I forced myself to finish the book, but I didn't enjoy reading it.

Your mileage may vary.

This book actually made me feel much more than I was expecting from the first bit and it is a treasure, honestly
Crow is the MVP btw lol