A review by fakebeatlesfan
A Crooked Tree by Una Mannion

emotional mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

A little less suspenseful than I had thought when I read the introduction, but this was a fantastic read. 

I appreciated the realistic thoughts and actions of the main character, Libby, who is 15 years old, and her navigation through grief, heartbreak and boys, along with the events that happen to her younger sister. 

Mannion does an excellent job of providing realistic, relatable narration, the storyline was great, and going through Libby's POV of several different aspects in relationships and trust even within her family was satisfying to hear. Nothing felt out of place, or "Mary-sue" so to speak. 

Only thing I wish the book covered a little more was how impactful her father's death to her and her family, along with the Bill character and how it dismantled her family structure. I felt like her dad's death was kind of skimmed over, it was mentioned a few times but I wish there was more substance to it.

Great read! I really loved reading this book and would recommend it to my friends!