Little Altars Everywhere : Book Review

"Little Altars Everywhere" by Rebecca Wells is an absolutely captivating and deeply moving novel that takes readers on an emotional journey through the complexities of family, love, and forgiveness. The story is set in the charming town of Thornton, Louisiana, and revolves around the lives of the Walker family. Through alternating perspectives and timelines, Wells skillfully unravels the secrets, struggles, and triumphs of four remarkable women.

At the heart of the book is the relationship between Vivi and Sidda, a mother and daughter duo. Vivi, a strong-willed and vivacious woman, battles her own demons and the pressures imposed by society. Sidda, her daughter, grapples with the aftermath of her unconventional upbringing and seeks to understand her mother's actions. Their bond is portrayed with such tenderness and depth, showcasing the complexities that exist within any family.

Wells's writing is nothing short of enchanting. Her descriptions are so vivid that readers can easily imagine the characters and the town of Thornton, immersing themselves in the story. The narrative skillfully alternates between the past and the present, shedding light on the characters' motivations and past experiences. This narrative structure gradually reveals the long-held secrets and mysteries that have haunted the family, adding an element of suspense and intrigue.

What truly makes this book stand out is Wells's ability to tackle profound and universal themes with honesty and sensitivity. Themes such as guilt, forgiveness, redemption, and the enduring power of family ties are woven seamlessly into the characters' personal journeys, adding depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.

"Little Altars Everywhere" is undoubtedly a poignant and thought-provoking novel that lingers in the minds of readers long after the final page has been turned. With its compelling characters, intricately developed storylines, and powerful themes, it serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the healing potential of love and forgiveness. Rebecca Wells's masterful storytelling makes this book a must-read for anyone who appreciates a heartfelt and evocative story.

What are readers saying?

"Little Altars Everywhere," written by Rebecca Wells, has sparked a range of reactions from readers. The novel delves into themes of family, identity, and the complexities of Southern life.

Many readers praised the book for its vivid and captivating storytelling. They found Wells' writing style engaging and were enthralled by the characters' journeys. These readers appreciated the depth of the relationships portrayed in the book, particularly the complex dynamics within the family. They also commended Wells for her sensitive and authentic exploration of topics such as domestic violence and mental illness.

On the other hand, there were readers who had a different perspective on "Little Altars Everywhere." They felt that the narrative was disjointed and struggled to connect with the characters. Some found the story to be slow-paced and lacking in plot development. Additionally, these readers criticized the book for relying too heavily on Southern stereotypes, rather than focusing on well-rounded character development.

Opinions on the writing style varied among readers. Some found the Southern charm and colloquial language used by Wells to be charming and enjoyable. However, others felt that it was distracting and made the story difficult to follow. The multiple perspectives and non-linear structure also left some readers feeling confused and disconnected from the overall narrative.

A few readers expressed disappointment with the lack of resolution in certain storylines. They felt that some plot points were left unresolved, leaving them unsatisfied with the reading experience as a whole.

LittleAltarsEverywhere GoodreadsBookClub SouthernFiction