What I Thought:

Sadly, I think that this book has gotten a lot of grief purely for the fact that it is short. However, I find this rather absurd, as the blurbs and descriptions all say that it is a short story! That being said, I am only just delving into this world of short stories and flash fiction. I have always been more of a series, high fantasy, 700 page book malarkey, but I started seeing the beauty of having the option to read a great story in a single evening. I think it is especially great for parents or busy business people, as they don't always know when they'll have the option to read again!

With all this in mind, I knew I was getting into a short story, at about 60 pages, and expected a slightly speedier pace, as there was a lot less time to create and develop. I do think this story would have been fantastic as a full length read, but I did enjoy it.

I found the main character both lovely and infuriating. She was put in a bad position, when she went to meet her longterm boyfriend's parents, coined the in-laws. They were still hooked on their son's previous partner, and now ex-wife. With a young child involved and the divorce taking place, for whatever reason, just a year ago, it is actually something we might see in real life. Of the families I know, who have divorced relatives, it is mentioned years and years after because marriage is a tight bond. However, the poor girl is made to feel as though she is not wanted, doesn't fit in and she starts to believe both that she is in well over her head and that she may not be right for her partner.

We watch as their holiday unfolds, with drama upon drama. I found myself starting to resent the main character, but I still also disliked the family. I found this fantastic, as any situation like this, where someone is in the middle, would result in such emotion, i believe.

The end, has twists and turns, as any relationship in jeopardy might, especially one that is getting close to making the leap into a more serious stage. I found it intriguing, infuriating, emotional and a bit of fun. It is not the absolute best read I have experienced, but it is fun for a short, fast read. ( )