This was a bit of a departure for the author. While there were still aspects of magic realism this was a grittier and more grounded book than her previous releases. As always it was truly beautiful and the setting and descriptions were so evocative. Lovely to read. ( )

This is a really beautiful book, peppered with just enough magical realism to keep things interesting. Zoey, the protagonist, is so very like-able. As is Charlotte. There’s even a Boo Radley type and I’m impressed that this character has one denouement moment, but remains a mystery at the end—she doesn’t change, but the people in her orbit, and how they relate to her, do. That’s nuanced.

These "other birds," joined by Mac and Frasier, create their own flock, and that's ultimately the point of the book. But along the way, there are painful histories, ghosts--real and imagined, and a special "bird" named Pigeon.

There are some artful reveals, and those that should be obvious, but might not be. The book is slightly weakened by an unevenness in narrative--there are times when we aren't quite sure whose story is center stage because there's a bit of stream-of-consciousness jumping from one character to the next. Ultimately, however, the real value is in how Allen doesn't resort to cliché--what typically detonates fizzles out instead, and we are left satisfied with the unanswered questions just as we must be in real life in order to grow and have meaningful relationships. ( )

Intriguing story, although a little predictable - great characters and lovely twisted plotlines ( )

What does it take to let go? Sarah Addison Allen has given us a beautiful and enchanting story about a few people on an island that in coming together discover what it means to face your fears, let go and move forward. Includes a large dose of magical realism with ghosts narrating intermittently between the real people drama. Not a complex plot, it’s pretty obvious where the story is going,but I loved every page. It was healing to read. Trigger warning: there is trauma in this tale in the form of addressing past abuse, violence, and PTSD. ( )

In my opinion this is her best book ever. I've enjoyed several of her books but this one really hit differently. I'm really in love with the story and the characters and the heart break and the love.