Leslie Tall Manning

This is an interesting book. I was expecting a historical novel with an element of magical realism, and it is, but I would say this is predominantly a psychological novel. The book deals well with its setting and social issues – Maggie’s feelings about giving up her job, her husband’s stifling expectations, her friend’s reaction to her not wanting children etc. On top of that there is the dream situation which begins to dominate more and more of Maggie’s life. Unfortunately, this was where the book fell down for me somewhat as I was really much more interested in Maggie’s “real-world” problems so to speak. I also found it difficult to get a handle on Maggie’s personality. She was still a bit of a blank slate to me by the end of the book, and I felt we never got very far into her thoughts. What does Maggie really think of her husband for example? Does she really believe in the end that “everything she desired already belonged to her”?. What was the author’s ultimate intention for Maggie's life going forward? It was just a bit too vague for me and in the end, though I was interested in the story, I wasn’t emotionally invested in the outcome. All of which means that, while I liked the book and can recommend it as a thought-provoking read, I can’t quite say that I loved it.

I received a copy from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.… (altro)

Erica O’Donnell is a high school girl who suffers from syncope, or, chronic fainting. Her condition has made her parents overprotective and fearful every time she leaves the house, asks to try something new, or even bends down to tie her shoes.

Erica’s best friend, Lindsay, has always been around to literally catch her when she falls. But lately, Lindsay’s attention has shifted towards the father of her babysitting charges, local firefighter Larry Taggert.

Keeping Lindsay’s growing relationship with Larry a secret along with a growing number of fires in the area, turns Erica’s world upside down. With the help of Lindsay’s boyfriend, Adam, Erica is able to help cover for her friend, but the growing guilt and suspicion towards Larry’s motives begins to rip their friendship apart, and for the first time since receiving her diagnosis, Erica is left to maneuver through the world without her best friend and safety net.

Rules of Falling is a compelling YA novel with an interesting plot, well-developed characters, and a suspenseful, exciting tone. It’s a great read for a YA reader of any age who is looking for more than just a straightforward romance, thriller, or contemporary fiction as this book blends all of these genres into one well-paced, expertly developed story.

You can read my full review here: https://laurasbooksandblogs.com/rules-of-falling-review-interview/… (altro)