A review by jenspagesandponderings
Pete and Alice in Maine by Caitlin Shetterly

2.0

" Pete and Alice in Maine " by Caitlin Shetterly is a raw and unflinching look at a family in crisis during the tumultuous early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Alice and Pete, the central characters, grapple with the strains of a fractured marriage against the backdrop of a world in chaos. Shetterly's writing is poignant and beautifully crafted, delving into the depths of human emotions.

However, I found it challenging to connect with any of the characters, and perhaps that was the author's intention. The story paints a stark picture of a family on the brink, but the lack of likable characters made it difficult for me to engage with the narrative fully. The isolation imposed by hostile neighbors in their Maine retreat adds to the overall sense of confinement and despair, mirroring the uncertainties of the pandemic itself.

While the book explores the intricacies of modern parenthood and the strains on marriage, it may be too soon for some readers to revisit the early days of the pandemic. Additionally, if family drama is not your preferred genre, this novel may not resonate with you. Ultimately, " Pete and Alice in Maine " is a thought-provoking read, but it didn't quite hit the mark for me.