A review by women_using_words
The Space She Made for Me by Jo Boyle

dark emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad 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? It's complicated

5.0

The Space She Made for Me by Jo Boyle is a captivating anthology filled with short passionate pieces, narratives that are at times somber yet thought provoking. Boyle uses a creative and original approach to draw readers in, making the experience feel very intimate and personal. Each story begins with a provocative and engaging prompt, setting the stage and creating a tone that almost crackles with emotion. These stories are primed to showcase the complexities of life and love. Though each piece is written to stand independently, Boyle manages to weave them together beautifully, forming a  tapestry of heartrending tales. 

 

Though this collection is a bit dark at times, it still manages to be inspiring. Each story imparts a message: Love is unpredictable and not without struggle, but having it, even for a moment, can make life all the better. Weighty and a bit woeful? Yes, but these truths encourage engagement and reflection. It reminds one to change the mindset and shift the paradigm—to be hopeful, even when it looks like there’s none. When the written word can do that, pick at one’s brain a bit, then that’s really something. 

 

Final remarks… 

 

The Space She Made for Me is a compelling anthology of concise, poignantly scripted narratives filled with evocative, thought-provoking plot lines. It explores emotions that challenge traditional notions of happiness, filling its pages with unique and well-crafted narratives. I found it interesting and would recommend it to others that enjoy original, out of the box storytelling.