Talking at Night

“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.