A Review: It’s Hard to Tell You This by James Kinsley

Having previously read two of James Kinsley’s novels, I was surprised, and impressed, by It’s Hard to Tell You This. While I’ve always associated Kinsley with science fiction, this book takes a different direction, focusing instead on intimate human emotions and relationships. It’s a departure that works beautifully.

I found myself immediately identifying with Michael’s father. His experiences, especially his awkwardness at a Catholic school and his fear of girls, resonated with my own memories. The story caused me to think about my own relationships over the years..

At just the right length, the novel flows quickly, and while I could easily have read more, its brevity is one of its strengths. The ending, in particular, stands out. Endings are difficult to get right, but Kinsley manages to finish the story well.

This is, without question, Kinsley’s best book so far and, incredibly, it’s all fiction!

ISBN-13: 978-1917090193

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Paul Grenyer

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