Good short stories are complete and satisfying in themselves while leaving open the possibility of a continuing storyline; Hadley’s stories do both very well.
A wonderful storyteller, the Windham-Campbell Prize–winning Hadley (The Past) paints an evocative picture of the free-loving, bell-bottomed, pot-smoking, anti-establishment generation. With its Sixties vibe, vivid characters, and twisty plot, this book is a winner.
In the fine tradition of women's fiction by authors such as Margaret Drabble, Penelope Lively, and Rachel Cusk exploring relationships among the cultured classes, Hadley's place is secure. [See Prepub Alert, 7/9/18.]
Wise, stellar, accomplished, Hadley's collection will appeal to literary aficionados who appreciate such luminous (short) storytellers as Alice Munro, Lorrie Moore, and Jhumpa Lahiri.
It is difficult to single out a few stories for special attention in a collection this good. The best advice is to read them all. [See Prepub Alert, 12/5/16.]
Regardless, recommended for libraries building literary fiction audiobook collections. ["A fresh take on a familiar story of fractious family reunions where old resentments resurface, new alliances form, and long-buried secrets are uncovered": LJ 10/1/15 starred review of the Harper hc.]
A fresh take on a familiar story of fractious family reunions where old resentments resurface, new alliances form, and long-buried secrets are uncovered. A great read whether at the cottage or just dreaming of one. [See Prepub Alert, 7/13/15.]