This Crooked Way : Book Review

This Crooked Way by Elizabeth Spencer is a gorgeously written and captivating novel that delves into the themes of love, loss, and the complexities of family dynamics. Set in the Mississippi Delta during the 1920s, the story follows the intertwined lives of two families, the Howards and the Bells, through love and tragedy.

At the heart of the narrative is Laura, a young woman who finds herself grappling with her desires and values as she navigates her relationships with two very different men: Robert, a humble farmer with a kind heart, and Reeves, a charismatic and wealthy doctor. The tension between Laura's longing for stability and her attraction to adventure and passion forms the emotional core of the story, captivating readers and inviting them to reflect on their own desires and choices.

The beauty of Spencer's prose lies in its elegance and evocativeness, skillfully painting a vivid picture of the Delta landscape and the societal and cultural backdrop of the era. Through her masterful storytelling, she breathes life into a cast of deeply complex characters, each with their own dreams, secrets, and motivations. These characters feel authentic and real, allowing readers to connect with their struggles and triumphs on a profound level.

One of the notable strengths of This Crooked Way is its exploration of the intricacies inherent in family relationships. Spencer delves into the bonds of blood and loyalty, illuminating the ways in which family can both nurture and confine individuals. The novel also delves into the shifting dynamics of the South during this period, touching on themes of class, race, and gender, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the historical context.

Overall, This Crooked Way is a thought-provoking and exquisitely crafted novel that will resonate with fans of historical fiction and family sagas. Elizabeth Spencer's masterful prose and compelling characters make this book a true page-turner that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

What are readers saying?

Elizabeth Spencer's book "This Crooked Way" has garnered a range of reactions from readers. Some reviewers lauded the author's writing style and the complexity of her characters, while others expressed dissatisfaction with the slow pace and lack of depth in the story.

Many readers appreciated Spencer's descriptive prose, which helped to vividly bring the small Southern town setting to life. They found themselves effortlessly transported to this location, fully immersing themselves in the atmosphere and ambiance that Spencer crafted. The evocative language resonated with these readers, allowing them to experience the story on a deeper level.

The character development in "This Crooked Way" received positive feedback from many reviewers. They found the main character, Brainy Sullivan, to be multi-dimensional and well-developed, with motivations and conflicts that felt genuine. Spencer's exploration of Brainy's journey and personal growth throughout the book was praised for its authenticity and relatability. The intricate and nuanced relationships between the characters were also seen as a major strength of the book.

However, some readers felt that the pacing of the book was slow and meandering, making it challenging to maintain their interest in the story. They found themselves wanting more action and excitement to keep them engaged. These readers felt that the book lacked a clear direction, which hindered their ability to stay invested in the plot.

Additionally, a few reviewers found "This Crooked Way" to be lacking in depth and meaningful exploration of its themes. They found the story to be predictable and the resolution of conflicts to be unsatisfying. These readers were craving more complexity and substance, feeling that the book did not fully live up to its potential.

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