Talking at Night

This was fantastic!!! I especially loved how I was transported into the story of these chracters slowly. The story had a tremendous amount of emotional depth and nuance which unfolds at such a brilliant, perfect pace that disovering the intricacies of each chracter feels truly insightful and real. The chracters had several moments with each other that were so touching and moving that i could feel i was there with them right in the middle of this beautiful beautiful piece of writing. Will and Rosie's love for one another is always palpable even when they're absent from each other's lives and that is a true testament to the its-always-been-you trope. This book delivered perfectly on everything i could have asked for after reading the blurb. still can't believe it was a debut novel.

I don’t often feel inclined to write reviews, but for this book it is hard to resist. I am surprised to have not heard ANYONE, ANYWHERE talking about this book. I am lucky to have found it on my own.

With that, I leave a few words that I hope can convince other readers:

I read Normal People by Sally Rooney four years ago. That book left me thinking about it not only for weeks but for YEARS. So much so, I reread it this year. I anticipate Talking at Night to do the same.

My quick skepticism for this book was met utter poignance. Will and Rosie’s story is one that seems so familiar, but also so new. It’s a story so complicated, yet so raw and poetic. I do not wish to spoil this book, so, for that reason all I can say is that I was moved more than I ever thought I could be and only want for other readers to relish in Will and Rosie’s story as well.

5⭐️

“I wish I'd done everything on earth with you”

4.5
There were many times when this story took my breath away. Claire does a fantastic job making these characters feel compelling and real. I have never read love and longing described so beautifully and evocatively. They fall in love when they're young, but life and their fear get in the way. We grow up with them, and see how their relationship evolves, as they come in and out of each other's lives. This is a sorrowful and heavy story, so proceed cautiously and check content warnings. But it is also hopeful and lovely in all the ways that matter.

This novel took what Normal People attempted, and improved on it significantly. The only reason it's 4.5 is because I felt like some sections could be trimmed down to improve the pacing in the middle of the book. But do not let that stop you from reading this. It is exquisite.