With thanks to @crudites_, @Story_Machines and @alariclewis for my gifted copy and place on the Tour.
Synopsis
A hurricane is about to hit New York City and Edward has (probably) just been dumped by his boyfriend. He could use a break.
But with planes grounded and duties to attend to, he decides to drive across the country to his family estate. Accompanied by a photo of his Grams and Gramps and a heart heavy with loss, Edward embarks on a journey into the heart of America. Stopping at roadside bars, diners, and even the grave of the Kentucky Colonel, he will find that – thankfully – journeys home rarely go as planned.
Review
Powerful storytelling, unforgettable characters and a moving journey make this a hugely engaging read. I finished it in two sittings, I was completely invested!
It’s a questioning novel exploring family, love, social class, self-acceptance, freedom of choice and the meaning of home. Tough themes are dealt with well – it’s real and raw and makes you feel every word!
Edward’s character draws out the emotions. His name weighs heavily on his shoulders giving him a lot to live up to. He represses his feelings and comes across as cold, however as we glimpse his past we see there’s a vulnerability to him drowning in grief and regret. The relationship he had with his mum brought tears to my eyes and I adored the bond he had with his Gramps. It perfectly depicts how we can hurt those we love the most.
As Edward heads on a solo road trip back to his roots, we peel back the complex layers giving insight into what has shaped him and set him on the path he’s now walking. He meets important people along the way prompting philosophical debates and looking at the what ifs and what could have been.
Can Edward move forward by going back?
Bradington Bay is hopeful and melancholy and takes us on an amazing adventure full of heart, nostalgia and longing. It’s a fantastic debut that I highly recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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