What do you think?
Rate this book
Beautiful & Terrible Things
Charley Byrne isn’t really living. At age 29, she hunkers down in her apartment above the bookstore she manages, afraid of a 7-year curse. Then quirky activist Xander Wallace lures her out of social exile with the prospect of friendship and romance. Charley joins Xander’s circle of friends diverse in their heritage, race, gender and sexual orientation. She thrives, even leaving her comfort zone to join protests in a city struggling with social justice ills.
But the new friendships bring back-to-back betrayals that threaten the bookstore—Charley’s haven—and propel her into a dangerous depression. Can her friends save the store? And Charley?
Beautiful and Terrible Things offers a compelling portrait of modern American life in a major city with its vibrant culture and rampant social issues. At once enlightening and entertaining, it reminds us that friendship has the power to validate, destroy, transform, and save lives.
But the new friendships bring back-to-back betrayals that threaten the bookstore—Charley’s haven—and propel her into a dangerous depression. Can her friends save the store? And Charley?
Beautiful and Terrible Things offers a compelling portrait of modern American life in a major city with its vibrant culture and rampant social issues. At once enlightening and entertaining, it reminds us that friendship has the power to validate, destroy, transform, and save lives.
- GenresFictionContemporary
391 pages, Paperback
Published July 17, 2024
19 people are currently reading
2563 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Stevens
7 books91 followersS.M. Stevens is the author of contemporary novels including Beautiful and Terrible Things, which was named Indies Today Best Literary Book of 2024, and Horseshoes and Hand Grenades. She is also author of a YA series set in a high school drama program, and a Middle Grade adventure for animal-lovers.
A lifelong business writer who dabbled in creative writing on the side, Stevens found her opportunity to write fiction in earnest when she broke her pelvis in three places in a horseback riding fall. On crutches for three months and unable to commute to work, cook, clean or shuttle kids to activities, she turned to writing. The result was Shannon’s Odyssey, a middle-grade novel written for her younger daughter.
The following year, Stevens was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, which was treated with surgery and five months of chemotherapy. During this recovery, she wrote Bit Players, Has-Been Actors and Other Posers for her older daughter and all musical theatre-loving teens. Two additional Bit Players novels followed, filling the void in fiction for fans of performance shows like the Glee TV series and the High School Musical movies.
Beautiful and Terrible Things: A Novel, explores social justice themes including racism, immigration and mental health through the eyes of six friends. It reminds us that friendship has the power to validate, transform, destroy and save lives. The book has won multiple awards in general fiction, LGBTQIA+ fiction, and social issues fiction.
Horseshoes and Hand Grenades was her first adult novel, which was prompted by the #metoo movement. Fascinated by the parallels between workplace sexual harassment and childhood incest, specifically how society asks many of the same questions of both types of victim, she wrote the dual narrative of Shelby and Astrid, two women starting their careers in 1980s Boston while struggling with past and present demons.
Her business career includes executive positions at Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations including the Franklin Park Zoo and the USS Constitution (“Old Ironsides”) Museum in Boston. Currently, she consults and provides marketing and public relations services to solar energy companies.
Her freelance writing career includes articles and columns published in the Boston Globe, Bay State Parent, Bay State Realtor, Strategic Communications Magazine and Guitar & Bass Magazine, plus too many ghost-written articles to list.
Stevens has a bachelor’s degree in English from Cornell University. She also studied at University College at the University of London. She lives in New Hampshire.
A lifelong business writer who dabbled in creative writing on the side, Stevens found her opportunity to write fiction in earnest when she broke her pelvis in three places in a horseback riding fall. On crutches for three months and unable to commute to work, cook, clean or shuttle kids to activities, she turned to writing. The result was Shannon’s Odyssey, a middle-grade novel written for her younger daughter.
The following year, Stevens was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, which was treated with surgery and five months of chemotherapy. During this recovery, she wrote Bit Players, Has-Been Actors and Other Posers for her older daughter and all musical theatre-loving teens. Two additional Bit Players novels followed, filling the void in fiction for fans of performance shows like the Glee TV series and the High School Musical movies.
Beautiful and Terrible Things: A Novel, explores social justice themes including racism, immigration and mental health through the eyes of six friends. It reminds us that friendship has the power to validate, transform, destroy and save lives. The book has won multiple awards in general fiction, LGBTQIA+ fiction, and social issues fiction.
Horseshoes and Hand Grenades was her first adult novel, which was prompted by the #metoo movement. Fascinated by the parallels between workplace sexual harassment and childhood incest, specifically how society asks many of the same questions of both types of victim, she wrote the dual narrative of Shelby and Astrid, two women starting their careers in 1980s Boston while struggling with past and present demons.
Her business career includes executive positions at Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations including the Franklin Park Zoo and the USS Constitution (“Old Ironsides”) Museum in Boston. Currently, she consults and provides marketing and public relations services to solar energy companies.
Her freelance writing career includes articles and columns published in the Boston Globe, Bay State Parent, Bay State Realtor, Strategic Communications Magazine and Guitar & Bass Magazine, plus too many ghost-written articles to list.
Stevens has a bachelor’s degree in English from Cornell University. She also studied at University College at the University of London. She lives in New Hampshire.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
September 30, 2024
I enjoyed the listen. The narrator did a great job! The social justice issues were a little heavy-handed, and the dialogue and banter between characters was a little cheesy. But overall it covered some really important issues with interesting characters.
July 5, 2024
Introverted Charley Byrne would rather surround herself with books than people. Since the dreaded breakup, she’s been preoccupied with catastrophic, end-of-the-world thoughts. Stuck in her proverbial rut, Charley has no desire to leave the confines of her safe space, her lonely apartment, and the quiet bookstore she manages. But that all changes when Xander skips his way into her life. The scholarly speaking, eccentric environmentalist is quirky and charming, and Charley can’t help but feel drawn to him and his motley crew of friends. Maybe she belongs somewhere, after all.
But when deception and grief rear their ugly heads, the harmony between the group of friends is jeopardized, causing Charley to withdraw. Is she destined to be alone, or are her friends in it for the long haul?
Much like finding love when you’re least expecting it, sometimes a book comes along and literally takes your breath away. “Beautiful and Terrible Things” by S. M. Stevens stole my heart from the first page. Perhaps it is because of my neurodivergent brain, but I’ve never felt as seen as I did after becoming acquainted with the characters in this novel. Charley’s anxiety-ridden, obsessive thoughts to Xander’s quirkiness and stimming, I immediately felt at home in their world. Stevens has done a commendable job of representation in the immersive story—from neurodivergence and mental health to race and gender fluidity, this book is heavy on inclusivity. Readers of all backgrounds will find something that resonates with them.
S.M. Stevens has gifted readers with topics that evoke emotion and prompt reflection. The disparaging way that Black men are treated by law enforcement, discourse over environmental concerns, illegal immigration, and hostility towards the LGBTQ2+ community—the author tackles them all through character diversity. While most of the book follows Charley, the perspective briefly alternates between the other characters—Xander, Jessica, Terrence, Sunny, and Buwan—as Charley becomes a permanent fixture in their gang. Each friend is complex and has unique challenges to overcome, like the maddening disrespect Terrence is shown for the color of his skin, Xander’s advocacy for the environment that sometimes falls on deaf ears, and Buwan’s wavering mental health.
The author has successfully woven a tale of friendship, love, and identity amidst the chaos of today’s dangerous climate, where there is so much hatred and intolerance. Still, together, the friends find moments of beauty that uplift them. I don’t think there has ever been a more appropriate title for a novel than S.M Stevens’ “Beautiful and Terrible Things.” For readers who love stories about transformation, revolution, and advocacy, don’t miss out on this emotional and highly inspirational reading experience.
But when deception and grief rear their ugly heads, the harmony between the group of friends is jeopardized, causing Charley to withdraw. Is she destined to be alone, or are her friends in it for the long haul?
Much like finding love when you’re least expecting it, sometimes a book comes along and literally takes your breath away. “Beautiful and Terrible Things” by S. M. Stevens stole my heart from the first page. Perhaps it is because of my neurodivergent brain, but I’ve never felt as seen as I did after becoming acquainted with the characters in this novel. Charley’s anxiety-ridden, obsessive thoughts to Xander’s quirkiness and stimming, I immediately felt at home in their world. Stevens has done a commendable job of representation in the immersive story—from neurodivergence and mental health to race and gender fluidity, this book is heavy on inclusivity. Readers of all backgrounds will find something that resonates with them.
S.M. Stevens has gifted readers with topics that evoke emotion and prompt reflection. The disparaging way that Black men are treated by law enforcement, discourse over environmental concerns, illegal immigration, and hostility towards the LGBTQ2+ community—the author tackles them all through character diversity. While most of the book follows Charley, the perspective briefly alternates between the other characters—Xander, Jessica, Terrence, Sunny, and Buwan—as Charley becomes a permanent fixture in their gang. Each friend is complex and has unique challenges to overcome, like the maddening disrespect Terrence is shown for the color of his skin, Xander’s advocacy for the environment that sometimes falls on deaf ears, and Buwan’s wavering mental health.
The author has successfully woven a tale of friendship, love, and identity amidst the chaos of today’s dangerous climate, where there is so much hatred and intolerance. Still, together, the friends find moments of beauty that uplift them. I don’t think there has ever been a more appropriate title for a novel than S.M Stevens’ “Beautiful and Terrible Things.” For readers who love stories about transformation, revolution, and advocacy, don’t miss out on this emotional and highly inspirational reading experience.
April 3, 2024
S.M. Stevens’ Beautiful and Terrible Things examines the interconnected lives of six unique individuals. Stevens writes with vivid detail as she weaves together a story of friendship, secrets, love, and betrayal. The characters are expertly drawn and the plot meticulously constructed, taking the reader on a journey through the triumphs and tragedies of the characters’ lives. Stevens’ compassionate exploration of her characters results in a multi-perspective account of what it means to be a young adult in America today, culminating in a resolution that will stick with you long after the final page. I highly recommend this book!
October 1, 2024
Beautiful, intense, rich characters, brilliantly brought to life by narrator Nicole Cash.
June 14, 2024
Initially whilst reading through the early pages of this book, I’m not sure what it’s supposed to be about and although part one is mainly an introduction to the characters in this book, although Charley is the main character I’m quite drawn to Xander who is so quirky and full of life.
During part two, Xander and his friends get together for the weekend and include Charley for the ride. It’s just lots of bonding of friendship a lot of talking about current affairs and past histories and communicating just what friends are supposed to do I suppose. It’s revealed that the company just works for is possibly going to tear down the bookstore where Charley works and lives and turn them into condos. But until this decision is made permanent, she has to hold it herself but shares it with Terrance.
This book does talk about immigration, race and sexuality a lot and the resentment and issues experienced that are raised from these demographics in society. There is an incident that shows how black men feel and are treated after being pulled over for no apparent reason, the racism that’s shown towards them just for the colour of their skin. That particular incident bought tears to my eyes, because of the pain and anguish and the relief at him coming away alive. But it also showed his anger to be treated so badly so degradingly by the police just for being black.
It’s also goes onto describe illegal immigration and the issues surrounding it within American corporate businesses. The action of one of the group members was to find somewhere that a corporation could purchase cheap, so that it could be razed to the ground and then build condos in its place. The only trouble is they became friends with Charley, who lives there. So to try to make amends, she reports the companies practices, regarding the workforce and the non-payment of taxes to a reporter, in the hopes that it would stop their practices but her actions has consequences which affect her personal life.
This book once it picks up, is so beautifully written, so powerful and touching there are times when you feel as though you are actually there, experiencing all the hardship and pain and circumstances that the cast and their families have endured, you feel it all and I loved every second of it. I highly recommend that you read this book, it’s full of emotions and tears and there’s even some laughter. But it shows how the group deals with loss, companionships and societal issues that can have a negative effect on the character’s wellbeing. I also think that this book would be excellent for book clubs everywhere.
The only criticism I have of this book is that every time “Sunny” is having a conversation with “Charley”, the author keeps using they or their or them instead of her or she. So it gets very confusing as to whether there are other people with them or it’s just the couple having a conversation between themselves.
During part two, Xander and his friends get together for the weekend and include Charley for the ride. It’s just lots of bonding of friendship a lot of talking about current affairs and past histories and communicating just what friends are supposed to do I suppose. It’s revealed that the company just works for is possibly going to tear down the bookstore where Charley works and lives and turn them into condos. But until this decision is made permanent, she has to hold it herself but shares it with Terrance.
This book does talk about immigration, race and sexuality a lot and the resentment and issues experienced that are raised from these demographics in society. There is an incident that shows how black men feel and are treated after being pulled over for no apparent reason, the racism that’s shown towards them just for the colour of their skin. That particular incident bought tears to my eyes, because of the pain and anguish and the relief at him coming away alive. But it also showed his anger to be treated so badly so degradingly by the police just for being black.
It’s also goes onto describe illegal immigration and the issues surrounding it within American corporate businesses. The action of one of the group members was to find somewhere that a corporation could purchase cheap, so that it could be razed to the ground and then build condos in its place. The only trouble is they became friends with Charley, who lives there. So to try to make amends, she reports the companies practices, regarding the workforce and the non-payment of taxes to a reporter, in the hopes that it would stop their practices but her actions has consequences which affect her personal life.
This book once it picks up, is so beautifully written, so powerful and touching there are times when you feel as though you are actually there, experiencing all the hardship and pain and circumstances that the cast and their families have endured, you feel it all and I loved every second of it. I highly recommend that you read this book, it’s full of emotions and tears and there’s even some laughter. But it shows how the group deals with loss, companionships and societal issues that can have a negative effect on the character’s wellbeing. I also think that this book would be excellent for book clubs everywhere.
The only criticism I have of this book is that every time “Sunny” is having a conversation with “Charley”, the author keeps using they or their or them instead of her or she. So it gets very confusing as to whether there are other people with them or it’s just the couple having a conversation between themselves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2024
Wow!!! (Listened on Audible)
This book reminded me of “Friends”, but with a more diverse set of characters that dealt with major issues. Stevens was able to incorporate topics such as racism, homophobia, transgender, mental health, immigration, corporate America, and environmental issues, to name a few, and it didn’t feel forced…at all!
The last 2/3 definitely picked up, which I was grateful for as the beginning called for me to put it down and disengage at times. But I’m beyond thrilled that I kept with it.
I absolutely fell in love with the six friends and would love to be included in their friend group, if given the chance. I think this is due to amazing character development and the narrator, Nicole Cash. Nicole brought the huge number of characters, big and small, to life with her voice and how she depicted each personality. I actually felt like I could visualize them and see how they spoke and interacted with their mannerisms.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️, I do NOT give them out easily, but Beautiful and Terrible Things earned each star by telling a story that interwove heavy topics, evoked feelings and emotions, and made me angry and satisfied many times over.
Thank you S.M. Stevens! I cannot wait for what is next to come from this author and I’ll be searching for anything narrated by Nicole Cash!
This book reminded me of “Friends”, but with a more diverse set of characters that dealt with major issues. Stevens was able to incorporate topics such as racism, homophobia, transgender, mental health, immigration, corporate America, and environmental issues, to name a few, and it didn’t feel forced…at all!
The last 2/3 definitely picked up, which I was grateful for as the beginning called for me to put it down and disengage at times. But I’m beyond thrilled that I kept with it.
I absolutely fell in love with the six friends and would love to be included in their friend group, if given the chance. I think this is due to amazing character development and the narrator, Nicole Cash. Nicole brought the huge number of characters, big and small, to life with her voice and how she depicted each personality. I actually felt like I could visualize them and see how they spoke and interacted with their mannerisms.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️, I do NOT give them out easily, but Beautiful and Terrible Things earned each star by telling a story that interwove heavy topics, evoked feelings and emotions, and made me angry and satisfied many times over.
Thank you S.M. Stevens! I cannot wait for what is next to come from this author and I’ll be searching for anything narrated by Nicole Cash!
March 18, 2025
Beautiful and Terrible Things by S.M. Stevens is a deeply moving novel that explores themes of friendship, identity, and the challenges of modern life. Much like the author’s debut, Horseshoes and Hand Grenades, Stevens continues to place societal issues at the forefront of her storytelling. With remarkable skill, she crafts characters that are both deeply human and wonderfully complex, making it easy to connect with their journeys.
The novel shines a light on the intricacies of modern American life, offering a captivating look at the power of friendship to challenge, support, and transform. Stevens' sharp eye for pressing social issues makes Beautiful and Terrible Things resonate not just on a personal level, but on a broader societal one, more relevant in 2025 than ever.
Stevens has created a narrative that stays with you, reminding us all of both the beautiful and difficult sides of the human experience. Fans of Becky Albertalli and books that blend heartfelt emotions with social commentary will find this novel deeply resonant.
The novel shines a light on the intricacies of modern American life, offering a captivating look at the power of friendship to challenge, support, and transform. Stevens' sharp eye for pressing social issues makes Beautiful and Terrible Things resonate not just on a personal level, but on a broader societal one, more relevant in 2025 than ever.
Stevens has created a narrative that stays with you, reminding us all of both the beautiful and difficult sides of the human experience. Fans of Becky Albertalli and books that blend heartfelt emotions with social commentary will find this novel deeply resonant.
July 20, 2024
This felt like watching a movie drama. I could picture all the well written characters and envision the settings. It takes you through the ups and downs as they experience it. I wish I could have read it a little slower to take it all in. I will be re reading this again but I feel everyone should give this story a chance. It is so real and the situations complex and diverse. I am glad I was given the chance to try this one.
September 24, 2024
I couldn’t put this book down! There is such a unique array of characters, each with their own interesting stories and backgrounds. I fell in love with the characters and found myself feeling very emotional at all the crazy things that happened to them. The themes and events are all relevant to the world today, and the author handled some very dark topics with grace and sensitivity. I feel like a better person after reading this book!
July 27, 2025
This book covered most of social injustices of our times. It was well written. I enjoyed the group dynamics but felt Xander was very controlling and overbearing. It became a bit preachy for my enjoyment.
July 14, 2025
Definitely had mixed feelings about this one. For most of the book, it was just an ok read for me. That outweighed the parts I thoroughly enjoyed.
July 28, 2025
Even though this book was written about the very important social issues of our times, I feel like the author tried to jam too much into this one book and it came out preachy and predictable.
June 19, 2024
Beautiful and Terrible Things, a novel by S. M. Stevens captures the awkwardness that sometimes comes with making new friends. A group of very different millennials become something bigger than themselves as they navigate societal, career, relationship, and family challenges. Bu, perhaps the most challenged, is the heart of the group and the story, which follows the friends as they leave their comfort zones for something more. Beautiful and Terrible Things is a nuanced portrayal of each of these individuals and their disparate coming of age experiences. Excellent read.
August 10, 2024
Beautiful book ❤️ The story follows 6 friends and shows what true friendship is, including the hard times. It is an uplifting novel covering topics such as racism, homophobia, self harm and mental health issues. You can never truly know what's happening in another person's life....but friendship is so important and can help you through the toughest times.
Highly recommend.
Highly recommend.
October 13, 2024
(rounded up from 4.75)
This was a fantastic read for anyone looking for a book that is about extremely diverse friends and their struggles with racism, discrimination, general life and romance problems.
I loved that two of the friends in this group have severe mental health issues and, realistically, they are struggling with them and supporting each other about them. A shifting POV view means we get to peek inside the heads of characters who are nonbinary, black, brown but trying to pass for white, and white. They also embody the classic spectrum from extremely politically active to the person trying to advance within the system and all the arguments and diversity of opinions that go along with this.
Some of the characters will come across as unlikeable but everyone has a fantastic arc that leads to a satisfying conclusion of the story and some shifting dynamics within the group of friends.
This was a fantastic read for anyone looking for a book that is about extremely diverse friends and their struggles with racism, discrimination, general life and romance problems.
I loved that two of the friends in this group have severe mental health issues and, realistically, they are struggling with them and supporting each other about them. A shifting POV view means we get to peek inside the heads of characters who are nonbinary, black, brown but trying to pass for white, and white. They also embody the classic spectrum from extremely politically active to the person trying to advance within the system and all the arguments and diversity of opinions that go along with this.
Some of the characters will come across as unlikeable but everyone has a fantastic arc that leads to a satisfying conclusion of the story and some shifting dynamics within the group of friends.
September 8, 2024
Great book elevated by a tremendous performance!
This is a book that should be on every nightstand, dealing with difficult issues with empathy and authenticity. It’s what our country needs right now. The narrator brought the story and diverse characters to life - each one distinct and unique which allowed me to know them and feel as if I was a part of their group of friends. Highly recommend!
This is a book that should be on every nightstand, dealing with difficult issues with empathy and authenticity. It’s what our country needs right now. The narrator brought the story and diverse characters to life - each one distinct and unique which allowed me to know them and feel as if I was a part of their group of friends. Highly recommend!
September 1, 2024
An extremely diverse group of six friends face up to some of life's most challenging moments in this page-turner by new-to-me author S.M Stevens. The title accurately portrays the types of poignant and memorable milestones and losses that young adults might have to deal with. Charley, a bookstore owner crippled by the death of all those she has loved is the main character, but Xander, the quirky idealistic leader of the group is a real standout. Highly recommended for authentic dialogue and wonderful character development.
July 10, 2025
OK, so first up, this is not the genre of book I would normally choose to read, but I gave it a read anyway to try read something different.
As the title suggests, there are many beautiful moments to be experienced and terrible things that will break your heart.
Beautiful & Terrible Things has a cast of diverse people, from varied backgrounds, cultures, genders, and ideologies, that manage to find each other and form a tightly knit friendship group.
As a group, they experience the ups and downs of relationships, betrayal, and love, while the idiosyncrasies of each character set them apart and define their distinct and unique personalities.
Racism, depression, and self-harm are all present, shining a light on society and some of the challenges people face every day, while snippets of historical references and cultural practices help enrich and lighten the story.
At times I found this book a heavy going, but I persisted. By the latter half the book, I found myself drawn into the story and was enjoying the characters.
For those who enjoy contemporary fiction, this would be a good read.
As the title suggests, there are many beautiful moments to be experienced and terrible things that will break your heart.
Beautiful & Terrible Things has a cast of diverse people, from varied backgrounds, cultures, genders, and ideologies, that manage to find each other and form a tightly knit friendship group.
As a group, they experience the ups and downs of relationships, betrayal, and love, while the idiosyncrasies of each character set them apart and define their distinct and unique personalities.
Racism, depression, and self-harm are all present, shining a light on society and some of the challenges people face every day, while snippets of historical references and cultural practices help enrich and lighten the story.
At times I found this book a heavy going, but I persisted. By the latter half the book, I found myself drawn into the story and was enjoying the characters.
For those who enjoy contemporary fiction, this would be a good read.
April 19, 2024
A thought-provoking tale about the issues facing a generation of young people, told through a variety of perspectives and world views. The variety and complexity of the issues form a complicated web - although few things facing this generation of twenty-somethings could be termed simple, the sense that action can produce results is never lost. An empowering story about the consequences of both action and inaction. Compassionate and thoughtful to the last. Loved it!
April 8, 2024
Spoilers: S.M. Stevens’ novel, Beautiful and Terrible Things lives up to its name. It's a Contemporary Literature that is about a beautiful friendship among six diverse fascinating individuals but it is also about the terrible things that happen to them as they try to maintain that friendship against their various struggles.
Charley is a bookseller who has various disorders. She has Depression, OCD, Dermatillomania, and Agoraphobia. Her life is structured and rigid from the time she spends preparing her day in her apartment above the bookstore to the amount of time she plays word searches on her phone. One day, she encounters Xander, an eloquent customer who is also a political activist. Charley eventually accompanies Xander on an outing with his friends and is quickly welcomed into their inner circle. They are a truly interesting bunch consisting of: Terrence, Xander’s colleague and fellow activist, Jessica, a financial analyst and Xander’s roommate, Sunny, a nonbinary person who is Xander’s friend with benefits, and Buwan, an artist whose vacation home is the center of the first friendly gathering. Through a difficult few months of prejudice, political activism, violence, sexual exploration, romances, lost jobs, and new opportunities this sextet’s friendship is truly tested.
The best thing about this book are the well developed characters. The six protagonists have the type of friendship that makes the Reader think, “I want to live in that city and be a part of that group.” They are from various ethnicities, diverse backgrounds, three genders, and have different outlooks on life yet strive to retain loyal connections with each other.
They are almost like the Friends gang, only more diverse and set in the 2020’s.
The characters go through a lot of development over the course of the book, particularly in terms of relationships. During the novel, two characters tentatively begin a relationship, two more become romantically involved then break up, and one character reveals their amorous feelings towards another. That's not to mention the final pages when some are paired with different people than before, while others take their relationships to the next level. It can get rather confusing to keep track of all of the crushes, romances, and dissolution of relationships.
Fortunately, the Super Six aren't consumed by romance and the pairings are written realistically without resorting to soap opera tropes like infidelity or love triangles. Some characters click as a couple. Sometimes they have a lot in common or visualize a future together. Sometimes they don't and that's fine as well. As strong as relationships are in their lives, their friendships are stronger. Even after a break up, they still retain those connections and think well of one another.
As memorable as they are as a team, they also stand out as individuals. The group’s idiosyncrasies develop them and make them come alive. From Xander’s overly flowery language, Terrence’s monochromatic wardrobe, Jessica's insistence on referring to the others by their first initials, Buwan’s dragon tattoos, Sunny’s fascination with marriage and children, to Charley’s superstitious nature, these little quirks and characteristics reveal much about the people who inhabit them in a way that is natural and not cloying.
Sometimes their quirks are tells of deeper issues especially when we learn that many of the characters have mental and emotional disorders. There's Charley with her various internal struggles. Buwan takes medication for Anxiety attacks. Terrence has an anxious and hyper aware personality stemming from his mother's lessons. Many of the other characters go through periods of loneliness, insecurity, and emotional turmoil as well.
Once their deeper emotional cores are revealed, much of the earlier behavior that might have been waved off as “just them being them” makes sense and is sometimes seen as sadder and more tragic. These oddities were foreshadowing hints that some things may not always be right with our heroes and they get through their issues by acting out, speaking up, pairing up, hiding, conforming, or fighting against those who threaten them. They are lovable but also troubled.
Besides friendly, romantic, and internal conflicts, the friends struggle with outward controversial issues as well. Charley learns that her bookstore will be closed and she will be evicted. Not only that but one of her friends is involved with the business that wants to purchase that property. She is hurt and betrayed and dangerously isolates herself from everyone else. This economic conflict explores the class structure among the characters and how some in a higher status can unintentionally hurt others by their association.
The characters have various discussions about politics and current events and their beliefs reflect their own backgrounds and experiences. One of those conversations about undocumented immigrants becomes personal for Jessica. In the beginning, she speaks as the child of Colombian immigrants turned American citizens. She distances herself and her affluent family from illegal immigrants insisting that they are different from her. Her self-internalized xenophobia comes back to haunt her when a friend is in danger of being deported. Suddenly, those immigrants that she considered beneath her now have a recognizable face and she is forced to confront her previous views.
Race is a common theme. Terrence recalls many of his mother's advice on how he, as a black man, should go out in public. He has to consider things like his tone of voice and simple gestures like telling a police officer that he is reaching for his wallet before he does. These are things that many of his friends don't have to think about but are central to him so he doesn't get arrested or shot.
Xander encourages his friends to participate in rallies and protests, particularly involving environmentalism, sexuality, gender identity, and race relations. A Black Lives Matter protest becomes climactic when the friends face physical injury and one lands in the hospital. Xander himself displays violent rage filled behavior that he never had before to the point that he frightens Charley who observes him. While they fight for a good cause and have good intentions, the BLM protest takes a physical and emotional toll on the friends that alters their feelings for each other. Things have changed among them forever and may never be fully repaired.
Beautiful and Terrible Things is a book that is a lot like modern life. There are many terrible things, some that can be controlled like a broken romance or a lost job. Some that cannot such as a faltering economy or systemic racism. These things can test us physically, mentally, and emotionally. However, there can be beautiful things as well: a new relationship, time with friends, the pursuit of one's interests or occupation, a pleasant vacation, and a wonderful group that feels like a family and can experience those beautiful things as well.
Charley is a bookseller who has various disorders. She has Depression, OCD, Dermatillomania, and Agoraphobia. Her life is structured and rigid from the time she spends preparing her day in her apartment above the bookstore to the amount of time she plays word searches on her phone. One day, she encounters Xander, an eloquent customer who is also a political activist. Charley eventually accompanies Xander on an outing with his friends and is quickly welcomed into their inner circle. They are a truly interesting bunch consisting of: Terrence, Xander’s colleague and fellow activist, Jessica, a financial analyst and Xander’s roommate, Sunny, a nonbinary person who is Xander’s friend with benefits, and Buwan, an artist whose vacation home is the center of the first friendly gathering. Through a difficult few months of prejudice, political activism, violence, sexual exploration, romances, lost jobs, and new opportunities this sextet’s friendship is truly tested.
The best thing about this book are the well developed characters. The six protagonists have the type of friendship that makes the Reader think, “I want to live in that city and be a part of that group.” They are from various ethnicities, diverse backgrounds, three genders, and have different outlooks on life yet strive to retain loyal connections with each other.
They are almost like the Friends gang, only more diverse and set in the 2020’s.
The characters go through a lot of development over the course of the book, particularly in terms of relationships. During the novel, two characters tentatively begin a relationship, two more become romantically involved then break up, and one character reveals their amorous feelings towards another. That's not to mention the final pages when some are paired with different people than before, while others take their relationships to the next level. It can get rather confusing to keep track of all of the crushes, romances, and dissolution of relationships.
Fortunately, the Super Six aren't consumed by romance and the pairings are written realistically without resorting to soap opera tropes like infidelity or love triangles. Some characters click as a couple. Sometimes they have a lot in common or visualize a future together. Sometimes they don't and that's fine as well. As strong as relationships are in their lives, their friendships are stronger. Even after a break up, they still retain those connections and think well of one another.
As memorable as they are as a team, they also stand out as individuals. The group’s idiosyncrasies develop them and make them come alive. From Xander’s overly flowery language, Terrence’s monochromatic wardrobe, Jessica's insistence on referring to the others by their first initials, Buwan’s dragon tattoos, Sunny’s fascination with marriage and children, to Charley’s superstitious nature, these little quirks and characteristics reveal much about the people who inhabit them in a way that is natural and not cloying.
Sometimes their quirks are tells of deeper issues especially when we learn that many of the characters have mental and emotional disorders. There's Charley with her various internal struggles. Buwan takes medication for Anxiety attacks. Terrence has an anxious and hyper aware personality stemming from his mother's lessons. Many of the other characters go through periods of loneliness, insecurity, and emotional turmoil as well.
Once their deeper emotional cores are revealed, much of the earlier behavior that might have been waved off as “just them being them” makes sense and is sometimes seen as sadder and more tragic. These oddities were foreshadowing hints that some things may not always be right with our heroes and they get through their issues by acting out, speaking up, pairing up, hiding, conforming, or fighting against those who threaten them. They are lovable but also troubled.
Besides friendly, romantic, and internal conflicts, the friends struggle with outward controversial issues as well. Charley learns that her bookstore will be closed and she will be evicted. Not only that but one of her friends is involved with the business that wants to purchase that property. She is hurt and betrayed and dangerously isolates herself from everyone else. This economic conflict explores the class structure among the characters and how some in a higher status can unintentionally hurt others by their association.
The characters have various discussions about politics and current events and their beliefs reflect their own backgrounds and experiences. One of those conversations about undocumented immigrants becomes personal for Jessica. In the beginning, she speaks as the child of Colombian immigrants turned American citizens. She distances herself and her affluent family from illegal immigrants insisting that they are different from her. Her self-internalized xenophobia comes back to haunt her when a friend is in danger of being deported. Suddenly, those immigrants that she considered beneath her now have a recognizable face and she is forced to confront her previous views.
Race is a common theme. Terrence recalls many of his mother's advice on how he, as a black man, should go out in public. He has to consider things like his tone of voice and simple gestures like telling a police officer that he is reaching for his wallet before he does. These are things that many of his friends don't have to think about but are central to him so he doesn't get arrested or shot.
Xander encourages his friends to participate in rallies and protests, particularly involving environmentalism, sexuality, gender identity, and race relations. A Black Lives Matter protest becomes climactic when the friends face physical injury and one lands in the hospital. Xander himself displays violent rage filled behavior that he never had before to the point that he frightens Charley who observes him. While they fight for a good cause and have good intentions, the BLM protest takes a physical and emotional toll on the friends that alters their feelings for each other. Things have changed among them forever and may never be fully repaired.
Beautiful and Terrible Things is a book that is a lot like modern life. There are many terrible things, some that can be controlled like a broken romance or a lost job. Some that cannot such as a faltering economy or systemic racism. These things can test us physically, mentally, and emotionally. However, there can be beautiful things as well: a new relationship, time with friends, the pursuit of one's interests or occupation, a pleasant vacation, and a wonderful group that feels like a family and can experience those beautiful things as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2025
Read my review on NovelsAlive.com by clicking the link below. It is also posted in full.
https://novelsalive.com/2025/06/02/4-...
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
Beautiful and Terrible Things by S.M. Stevens touches on many topics that are relevant to most of our lives and are always in the news today—racism, immigration, mental health, women’s rights, sexual orientation, gender identity, and social justice— all topics that are woven throughout the story in a caring and engaging manner. The novel is not preachy, and oftentimes emotional and not pretty, but there are also beautiful and caring moments.
Charley is a woman who has had bad luck since she was young, and her parents perished in a plane crash. Her maternal grandparents stepped in to raise her, and they tragically died seven years later in a house fire. These events and others have resulted in mental health issues, including depression, which has colored her view of her life, her actions, how she sees herself, and also her perception of how others see her.
Enter Xander, who strikes up a friendship with her when he often visits the local, independently owned bookstore where she works. He’s a social activist who works for a nonprofit and draws her into his friend’s circle. Sunny, Jess, Terrance, and Bu round out his friend’s group. All have their own stories and problems they have had to deal with. They all come from different backgrounds and cultures, which added new dimensions.
I was engaged from the beginning of the story to its conclusion, even when it took me out of my comfort zone. The story is broken into multiple parts, and the chapter titles give a glimpse of what’s to come. The numerous stories keep things fresh and moving forward. We get to know each of the characters a little at a time, which enriches the story. As their friendships develop, grow, and evolve, new layers and challenges emerge.
There is closure with the epilogue and some happily ever afters in the offing. While most storylines were wrapped up and given closure, a few loose ends were overlooked. The discussion questions at the back of the book were thought-provoking and pertinent.
Beautiful and Terrible Things is an emotionally charged story with many layers that address various social, emotional, and even political issues relevant today. Throughout the story, friendship and caring get Charley and the others to a better place in their lives.
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
https://novelsalive.com/2025/06/02/4-...
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
Beautiful and Terrible Things by S.M. Stevens touches on many topics that are relevant to most of our lives and are always in the news today—racism, immigration, mental health, women’s rights, sexual orientation, gender identity, and social justice— all topics that are woven throughout the story in a caring and engaging manner. The novel is not preachy, and oftentimes emotional and not pretty, but there are also beautiful and caring moments.
Charley is a woman who has had bad luck since she was young, and her parents perished in a plane crash. Her maternal grandparents stepped in to raise her, and they tragically died seven years later in a house fire. These events and others have resulted in mental health issues, including depression, which has colored her view of her life, her actions, how she sees herself, and also her perception of how others see her.
Enter Xander, who strikes up a friendship with her when he often visits the local, independently owned bookstore where she works. He’s a social activist who works for a nonprofit and draws her into his friend’s circle. Sunny, Jess, Terrance, and Bu round out his friend’s group. All have their own stories and problems they have had to deal with. They all come from different backgrounds and cultures, which added new dimensions.
I was engaged from the beginning of the story to its conclusion, even when it took me out of my comfort zone. The story is broken into multiple parts, and the chapter titles give a glimpse of what’s to come. The numerous stories keep things fresh and moving forward. We get to know each of the characters a little at a time, which enriches the story. As their friendships develop, grow, and evolve, new layers and challenges emerge.
There is closure with the epilogue and some happily ever afters in the offing. While most storylines were wrapped up and given closure, a few loose ends were overlooked. The discussion questions at the back of the book were thought-provoking and pertinent.
Beautiful and Terrible Things is an emotionally charged story with many layers that address various social, emotional, and even political issues relevant today. Throughout the story, friendship and caring get Charley and the others to a better place in their lives.
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
September 8, 2024
Stevens’ use of Frederick Buechner’s quote in the beginning of this novel is an especially apt one: “Here is the world. Beautiful and terrible things will happen. Don’t be afraid.” The author could well have whispered this into the ears of her six characters before setting them off on their separate journeys. Stevens does a remarkable job of allowing readers into their lives—their worlds. Fighting against social injustice is key to their group identity. Understanding the human psyche is key to knowing how Stevens was able to write such a gripping novel.
With great care, Stevens reveals integral details of characters’ lives and friendships with each other. We learn about their beautiful and terrible pasts. It isn’t long before I felt like I knew Charley, Sunny, Xander, Jess, Terrance, and Buwan; they felt like actual people in my life. As true for any deep or growing friendship, emotional intimacy isn’t always present, but Stevens focuses on the deeper moments in friendships with laser beam precision. She does a great job capturing it. We probably see through Charley’s eyes more than the others, as she is—like we are as readers—the ‘new kid on the block’ because the other five have been friends for quite awhile.
While there are many novels for adults about groups of women who are friends (The Group by Mary McCarthy or many of Maeve Binchy’s novels), there are fewer about deep connections in a group of men and women. And of course there was the hit TV show ‘Friends,’ and the movie, ‘The Big Chill,’ about a group of friends who reunite after one of them dies. Whereas big-screen tend to focus on the comedic in friendships, novels are better able to capture the complexities of friendships. At least the better ones like this one. While romance buds between a few of the characters here, this is primarily a book about a group whose connection becomes vital for each of them to thrive in their individual lives.
It isn’t simply clever wordsmithery that brings these character to life, but Stevens’ ability to realistically portray them through their interactions. Beautiful and terrible things do happen to them. Because Stevens knows how to make her characters living beings, we empathize and experience both their joys, as well as their sorrows. I hated the book to end because I so wanted to know what was going to happen next in their lives. This is truly a poignant and powerful read!
With great care, Stevens reveals integral details of characters’ lives and friendships with each other. We learn about their beautiful and terrible pasts. It isn’t long before I felt like I knew Charley, Sunny, Xander, Jess, Terrance, and Buwan; they felt like actual people in my life. As true for any deep or growing friendship, emotional intimacy isn’t always present, but Stevens focuses on the deeper moments in friendships with laser beam precision. She does a great job capturing it. We probably see through Charley’s eyes more than the others, as she is—like we are as readers—the ‘new kid on the block’ because the other five have been friends for quite awhile.
While there are many novels for adults about groups of women who are friends (The Group by Mary McCarthy or many of Maeve Binchy’s novels), there are fewer about deep connections in a group of men and women. And of course there was the hit TV show ‘Friends,’ and the movie, ‘The Big Chill,’ about a group of friends who reunite after one of them dies. Whereas big-screen tend to focus on the comedic in friendships, novels are better able to capture the complexities of friendships. At least the better ones like this one. While romance buds between a few of the characters here, this is primarily a book about a group whose connection becomes vital for each of them to thrive in their individual lives.
It isn’t simply clever wordsmithery that brings these character to life, but Stevens’ ability to realistically portray them through their interactions. Beautiful and terrible things do happen to them. Because Stevens knows how to make her characters living beings, we empathize and experience both their joys, as well as their sorrows. I hated the book to end because I so wanted to know what was going to happen next in their lives. This is truly a poignant and powerful read!
September 7, 2024
S.M. Stevens skillfully unveils the complex character of Charley Bryne, a woman with a troubled past who finds solace in the bookstore she manages. Her confidence, once robust, has waned, and she now seeks refuge in the store, her modest apartment, and a predictable routine that includes feeding the standoffish cat named Baggage. The arrival of Xander, an environmental activist, disrupts her solitary existence with his intellectual fervor and inquisitiveness about Charley. His influence leads her to meet his heterogeneous friends, setting the stage for a transformative journey.
The setting is painted with a broad brush of various colors and textures, depicting nearly any contemporary city in America. The people living in the diverse neighborhoods are threatened by the climate of suspicion, hatred, and prejudice on one side, with families, love, and hope on the other. S.M. Stevens uses her character diversity to give readers an inside look at a myriad of sensitive, emotionally charged topics, including racism, homophobia, transgender, environmental convictions, big business, mental health, and immigration, making it a compelling read for those interested in contemporary fiction and social issues.
As the story unfolds, the characters embark on an emotional journey. Unintended deception leads Charley to nearly succumb to her worst fears. These characters are not just words on a page but living, breathing individuals who make a difference for one another. Their journeys are profoundly moving, making this book a deeply emotional reading experience.
These six friends, Charley, Xander, Jessica, Terrance, Sunny, and Buwan, are brought to life by the consistent yet distinctive voices delivered by Nicole Cash's outstanding narration. Listeners will appreciate this masterfully written story's timely intonations, subtle accents, and perfect pace. Nicole Cash also delivers distinguishing supporting character dialogue with appropriate emotion, inflections, and sounds of their age. There were no issues with the audio performance.
S.M. Stevens' "Beautiful and Terrible Things" is a compelling book that will appeal to readers from all backgrounds. The story is engaging from beginning to end, and readers will find it challenging to pick a favorite character in this tale of hope, love, friendship, and identity.
The setting is painted with a broad brush of various colors and textures, depicting nearly any contemporary city in America. The people living in the diverse neighborhoods are threatened by the climate of suspicion, hatred, and prejudice on one side, with families, love, and hope on the other. S.M. Stevens uses her character diversity to give readers an inside look at a myriad of sensitive, emotionally charged topics, including racism, homophobia, transgender, environmental convictions, big business, mental health, and immigration, making it a compelling read for those interested in contemporary fiction and social issues.
As the story unfolds, the characters embark on an emotional journey. Unintended deception leads Charley to nearly succumb to her worst fears. These characters are not just words on a page but living, breathing individuals who make a difference for one another. Their journeys are profoundly moving, making this book a deeply emotional reading experience.
These six friends, Charley, Xander, Jessica, Terrance, Sunny, and Buwan, are brought to life by the consistent yet distinctive voices delivered by Nicole Cash's outstanding narration. Listeners will appreciate this masterfully written story's timely intonations, subtle accents, and perfect pace. Nicole Cash also delivers distinguishing supporting character dialogue with appropriate emotion, inflections, and sounds of their age. There were no issues with the audio performance.
S.M. Stevens' "Beautiful and Terrible Things" is a compelling book that will appeal to readers from all backgrounds. The story is engaging from beginning to end, and readers will find it challenging to pick a favorite character in this tale of hope, love, friendship, and identity.
April 19, 2024
Beautiful and Terrible Things by S.M. Stevens is an engaging narrative that delves into human resilience amidst tragedy. This novel thoughtfully examines pressing issues such as love, race, gender, and activism, providing a multifaceted look at the challenges and growth experienced by individuals in contemporary society. The protagonist, Charley Byrne, is vividly drawn; a young woman initially engulfed by fear and isolation until the dynamic activist Xander Wallace enters her life, sparking a transformative friendship.
The book adeptly navigates themes of friendship, love, and social justice, effectively pulling readers into Charley's evolving world. Her journey of personal growth and the quest to find her voice within a tightly-knit community underscores the narrative. Stevens introduces a diverse array of characters, each adding layers of complexity and enhancing the story with their perspectives, thus illustrating the strength derived from empathy and collective endeavor. Stevens's prose is lyrical and rich, capable of drawing readers deeply into the emotional landscape of the story—from introspective quietude to the fervor of protests and activism, the authenticity and emotional resonance of each scene are palpable. While the plot occasionally takes familiar turns, and some narrative threads could be more concise, the book's deep exploration of significant themes and rich character dynamics ensures a rewarding reading experience.
Beautiful and Terrible Things is not just a story about overcoming adversity but also a reflection on the intrinsic beauty that can be found in life's most formidable moments. It challenges readers to consider the enduring impact of human connections and the personal strength that can emerge from hardship. This novel remains with you, a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the complexities of life it navigates.
The book adeptly navigates themes of friendship, love, and social justice, effectively pulling readers into Charley's evolving world. Her journey of personal growth and the quest to find her voice within a tightly-knit community underscores the narrative. Stevens introduces a diverse array of characters, each adding layers of complexity and enhancing the story with their perspectives, thus illustrating the strength derived from empathy and collective endeavor. Stevens's prose is lyrical and rich, capable of drawing readers deeply into the emotional landscape of the story—from introspective quietude to the fervor of protests and activism, the authenticity and emotional resonance of each scene are palpable. While the plot occasionally takes familiar turns, and some narrative threads could be more concise, the book's deep exploration of significant themes and rich character dynamics ensures a rewarding reading experience.
Beautiful and Terrible Things is not just a story about overcoming adversity but also a reflection on the intrinsic beauty that can be found in life's most formidable moments. It challenges readers to consider the enduring impact of human connections and the personal strength that can emerge from hardship. This novel remains with you, a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the complexities of life it navigates.
May 1, 2024
Take Charley, a reclusive bookshop manager haunted by loss and a perceived curse; drop her into the world of quirky Xander and his close-knit group of diverse friends. Locate them all in an America teeming with activism about social issues related to gender, race, immigration and clashes between protesters and law enforcement. Sprinkle drops of loss, angst, self-discovery, and resilience, and you have the contemporary adult frame in which S.M. Stevens sets her new book Beautiful and Terrible Things.
Armed with the results of extensive research, and a deeply felt commitment to authentic portrayal of her characters and the contentious issues they face, Stevens introduces an array of diverse characters to whom an equally diverse array of readers should relate. Even while the group emerges as a microcosm of the wider society, each voice is distinct, adding layers of complexity, and enhancing the narrative with unique perspectives. But they are also well-drawn individuals who come alive on the page as they grapple with their own demons, making their personal journeys as significant as the turbulent journey they embrace together.
While some scenes may have benefitted from trimming, the best are taut, intense, and thought-provoking - a feast for book clubs and other discussion groups browsing shelves for strong but palatable doses of stark realism. One question groups will confront is whether Terrance is right that "human beings have evolved to a point where empathy is no longer necessary for their survival.” Upon reading this, I shuddered just as Sunny did, but through the struggles and triumphs of this group, Steven suggests we have not. The story gives us hope she is right.
Armed with the results of extensive research, and a deeply felt commitment to authentic portrayal of her characters and the contentious issues they face, Stevens introduces an array of diverse characters to whom an equally diverse array of readers should relate. Even while the group emerges as a microcosm of the wider society, each voice is distinct, adding layers of complexity, and enhancing the narrative with unique perspectives. But they are also well-drawn individuals who come alive on the page as they grapple with their own demons, making their personal journeys as significant as the turbulent journey they embrace together.
While some scenes may have benefitted from trimming, the best are taut, intense, and thought-provoking - a feast for book clubs and other discussion groups browsing shelves for strong but palatable doses of stark realism. One question groups will confront is whether Terrance is right that "human beings have evolved to a point where empathy is no longer necessary for their survival.” Upon reading this, I shuddered just as Sunny did, but through the struggles and triumphs of this group, Steven suggests we have not. The story gives us hope she is right.
July 29, 2024
Overall Rating = 4.5
Storyline & Concept = 4
Writing & Delivery = 5
Editorial = 4.5
Charley Byrne’s world is a cocoon, spun from fear and solitude. Working in and living above a bookstore, she finds solace in the silent company of books. The charismatic Xander Wallace pulls her away from the familiar and introduces her to his group of friends and his interests as an activist. She initially thrives, but these newfound connections bring their own trials and difficulties, sending Charley into a downward spiral.
The author masterfully creates characters as diverse as the city they live in, each bringing a unique perspective, enriching the narrative with depth and authenticity. Xander’s infectious energy becomes a catalyst for Charley’s transformation, drawing her into a vibrant world of activism and friendship. The bookstore is depicted as a haven of comfort. The city streets, filled with the undercurrent of social unrest, are portrayed with raw intensity. This novel is a powerful exploration of friendship, love, and betrayal. The bonds forged between Charley and her newfound companions are both heartwarming and heartbreaking. The betrayals that follow force Charley to confront her deepest fears and vulnerabilities. Yet, it is through these trials that she ultimately finds her strength and resilience. A must-read for those seeking a story that is both thought-provoking and emotionally meaningful.
Sublime Line: “A story of transformation, this novel challenges, inspires, and ultimately leaves a lasting impression.”
Storyline & Concept = 4
Writing & Delivery = 5
Editorial = 4.5
Charley Byrne’s world is a cocoon, spun from fear and solitude. Working in and living above a bookstore, she finds solace in the silent company of books. The charismatic Xander Wallace pulls her away from the familiar and introduces her to his group of friends and his interests as an activist. She initially thrives, but these newfound connections bring their own trials and difficulties, sending Charley into a downward spiral.
The author masterfully creates characters as diverse as the city they live in, each bringing a unique perspective, enriching the narrative with depth and authenticity. Xander’s infectious energy becomes a catalyst for Charley’s transformation, drawing her into a vibrant world of activism and friendship. The bookstore is depicted as a haven of comfort. The city streets, filled with the undercurrent of social unrest, are portrayed with raw intensity. This novel is a powerful exploration of friendship, love, and betrayal. The bonds forged between Charley and her newfound companions are both heartwarming and heartbreaking. The betrayals that follow force Charley to confront her deepest fears and vulnerabilities. Yet, it is through these trials that she ultimately finds her strength and resilience. A must-read for those seeking a story that is both thought-provoking and emotionally meaningful.
Sublime Line: “A story of transformation, this novel challenges, inspires, and ultimately leaves a lasting impression.”
July 18, 2024
S.M. Stevens writes a beautiful contemporary tale with Beautiful and Terrible Things
In Beautiful and Terrible Things, the reader is introduced to Charley, who likes things the way they are, and has almost become a recluse in her apartment above the book store where she works, more like manages. She hasn't really lived in a really long time, and believes, strongly believes in a curse. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. Charley has built her own personal haven, and then in walks Xander, and her life is about to change, and she may just be resistant to change. The story is full of self-discovery, looking deep inside yourself, and knowing who you can and can't trust. It's a remarkable story that you want to read again, and again. Charley is stronger than she knows, and sometimes, doesn't trust herself to make the right decision. This story is a definite attention grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. A reader can get lost in the story. Some of the pages, you end up reading slower than others, so not to miss anything. You get a soulful look into Charley, and so does she. Beautiful and Terrible Things is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.
In Beautiful and Terrible Things, the reader is introduced to Charley, who likes things the way they are, and has almost become a recluse in her apartment above the book store where she works, more like manages. She hasn't really lived in a really long time, and believes, strongly believes in a curse. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. Charley has built her own personal haven, and then in walks Xander, and her life is about to change, and she may just be resistant to change. The story is full of self-discovery, looking deep inside yourself, and knowing who you can and can't trust. It's a remarkable story that you want to read again, and again. Charley is stronger than she knows, and sometimes, doesn't trust herself to make the right decision. This story is a definite attention grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. A reader can get lost in the story. Some of the pages, you end up reading slower than others, so not to miss anything. You get a soulful look into Charley, and so does she. Beautiful and Terrible Things is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.
January 15, 2026
Beautiful & Terrible Things by S.M. Stevens is a quietly powerful novel about fear, friendship, and what it takes to step back into life after you’ve learned how to hide from it. Charley Byrne isn’t just anxious, she’s suspended. At twenty-nine, she has built a small, controlled world above her bookstore and lives inside it, convinced she’s waiting out a curse instead of avoiding risk.
What makes the story work is the way Charley’s emotional life unfolds alongside the social world she’s pulled into. Xander and his circle don’t just offer romance or companionship, they expose Charley to contradiction, activism, intimacy, and betrayal. The city becomes a living pressure cooker of identity, justice, loyalty, and disappointment. Stevens captures how belonging can feel both liberating and destabilizing, especially when you’ve built your life around staying safe.
The novel’s strength is its emotional honesty. It doesn’t romanticize community or activism, and it doesn’t reduce depression to a single event. The betrayals feel real. The damage feels cumulative. And Charley’s struggle to protect the bookstore, her sense of self, and her fragile hope is genuinely affecting.
For readers who love character-driven literary fiction with social texture, emotional depth, and flawed but human people trying to do better, Beautiful & Terrible Things is thoughtful, relevant, and quietly devastating in the best way.
What makes the story work is the way Charley’s emotional life unfolds alongside the social world she’s pulled into. Xander and his circle don’t just offer romance or companionship, they expose Charley to contradiction, activism, intimacy, and betrayal. The city becomes a living pressure cooker of identity, justice, loyalty, and disappointment. Stevens captures how belonging can feel both liberating and destabilizing, especially when you’ve built your life around staying safe.
The novel’s strength is its emotional honesty. It doesn’t romanticize community or activism, and it doesn’t reduce depression to a single event. The betrayals feel real. The damage feels cumulative. And Charley’s struggle to protect the bookstore, her sense of self, and her fragile hope is genuinely affecting.
For readers who love character-driven literary fiction with social texture, emotional depth, and flawed but human people trying to do better, Beautiful & Terrible Things is thoughtful, relevant, and quietly devastating in the best way.
July 15, 2024
Beautiful and Terrible Things is a must-read microcosm of today’s America in all its diverse fearsomeness. Yet at the same time, it still manages to be an intimate story of contemporary friends struggling to support one another while fending off their own personal demons and afflictions. The fact that the book can be both of these things at once is a credit to author S.M. Stevens’ talent.
Reserved bookworm Charley is finally drawn out of her shell by the promise of kinship or even romance among a group of five close-knit friends, who take her in as the newest member of their crew. These finely-drawn characters run a gamut of ethnicities and sexual persuasions, exploring heavy topics together like racism, immigration, environmentalism, and social ethics. We watch examples of these unfold in their intertwining lives, engaging the reader through their rocky attractions, anxieties, identity issues, and emotional highs and lows.
The complex story lines pull you through to a tumultuous conclusion, which dissects a social protest gone awry from multiple points of view and ensnares several of the novel’s emotionally vulnerable characters. You’ll be intrigued from start to finish by this terrific group of confidantes, especially in light of our current political environment. Don’t miss it!
Reserved bookworm Charley is finally drawn out of her shell by the promise of kinship or even romance among a group of five close-knit friends, who take her in as the newest member of their crew. These finely-drawn characters run a gamut of ethnicities and sexual persuasions, exploring heavy topics together like racism, immigration, environmentalism, and social ethics. We watch examples of these unfold in their intertwining lives, engaging the reader through their rocky attractions, anxieties, identity issues, and emotional highs and lows.
The complex story lines pull you through to a tumultuous conclusion, which dissects a social protest gone awry from multiple points of view and ensnares several of the novel’s emotionally vulnerable characters. You’ll be intrigued from start to finish by this terrific group of confidantes, especially in light of our current political environment. Don’t miss it!
February 17, 2025
This is an original novel about an unlikely set of six friends, all of them around 29 years old, and all of them different in diverse ways. There's a white bookstore manager who's shut herself off from social contact after her parents and then her grandparents died; a biracial, pansexual "earth mother"; an energetic white environmental activist who goes to every protest rally he hears about--and writes spontaneous haikus; an ambitious Latina CPA who has always passed as white; a black PR expert who's been raised with extreme caution by his single mother; and a biracial and bipolar artist who goes off his meds because they quash his art.
Living in a (fictional) medium-large US city, this group inevitably finds their friendships, beliefs, and careers challenged repeatedly by some of today's most important social conflicts.
Author S.M. Stevens does an amazing job in portraying all six of these characters, fleshing out their varying backgrounds, fears, weaknesses, and dreams, and even creating a vivid secondary cast of friends and relatives.
Sometimes the political talk reads too much like canned speeches. (Would a pair of lovers, in bed together for the first time, really launch into a discussion of institutional racism?) But overall, the book does a good job of weaving important and timely issues into a page-turning plot.
Living in a (fictional) medium-large US city, this group inevitably finds their friendships, beliefs, and careers challenged repeatedly by some of today's most important social conflicts.
Author S.M. Stevens does an amazing job in portraying all six of these characters, fleshing out their varying backgrounds, fears, weaknesses, and dreams, and even creating a vivid secondary cast of friends and relatives.
Sometimes the political talk reads too much like canned speeches. (Would a pair of lovers, in bed together for the first time, really launch into a discussion of institutional racism?) But overall, the book does a good job of weaving important and timely issues into a page-turning plot.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews