With 'How to Walk Away', Katherine Center expertly places us in a nightmare situation. Most writers give us broad brushstrokes, but Center also captures the tiniest details that trigger all our senses. I have no doubt that a ton of research went into the writing of this book, yet at no point did I feel overwhelmed by detail. Instead, details are sprinkled throughout as needed, in a way that brings the story to life without weighing it down.
The story is written in first person, from Margaret's viewpoint. We get to know her well, and the first person writing allows us to really experience the vast emotions along with her.
Most of the other characters feel a little flat. I loved Kit, Margaret's sister, who is quirky and full of life. For me, she is the star of the supporting cast. The other characters fill a role but don't stand out on their own.
I never felt romance between Margaret and her fiance Chip. For Margaret, marrying Chip appeared to be more about winning a prize. I'm not sure what Chip got out of it, though it felt more like a conquest than actual love for him. I would have liked a better connection within their relationship, so I could feel the emotion behind all the events playing out. As it stands, Margaret's mother appears more distraught by the situation than the couple themselves.
I don't want to give any spoilers, so I'll just say the serious nature of Margaret's struggle feels downplayed by the fluff of relationships surrounding and including her.
Overall, this is an entertaining read with powerful content that is sometimes overpowered by a chick-lit feel.
The story is written in first person, from Margaret's viewpoint. We get to know her well, and the first person writing allows us to really experience the vast emotions along with her.
Most of the other characters feel a little flat. I loved Kit, Margaret's sister, who is quirky and full of life. For me, she is the star of the supporting cast. The other characters fill a role but don't stand out on their own.
I never felt romance between Margaret and her fiance Chip. For Margaret, marrying Chip appeared to be more about winning a prize. I'm not sure what Chip got out of it, though it felt more like a conquest than actual love for him. I would have liked a better connection within their relationship, so I could feel the emotion behind all the events playing out. As it stands, Margaret's mother appears more distraught by the situation than the couple themselves.
I don't want to give any spoilers, so I'll just say the serious nature of Margaret's struggle feels downplayed by the fluff of relationships surrounding and including her.
Overall, this is an entertaining read with powerful content that is sometimes overpowered by a chick-lit feel.