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Little Bird
The skeletons in the closet have nothing on the one in your backyard.
Freshly divorced and grieving the death of her father, Josie Lauer has caged herself inside her home. To cope with her losses, Josie follows a strict daily routine of work, playing with her dog, Po, and trying to remember to eat a decent meal—and ending each night by drinking copious amounts of vodka. In other words, she is not coping at all.
Everything changes when Josie wakes to find a small shrub has sprouted in her otherwise dirt backyard the morning after yet another bender. Within hours, the vine-like plant is running amok—and it’s brought company. The appearance of the unwieldly growth has also heralded the arrival of a busybody new neighbor who insists on thrusting herself into Josie’s life. The neighbor Josie can deal with. The talking skeleton called Skelly that has perched itself in Josie’s backyard on a throne made of vines, however, is an entirely different matter.
As the strangely sentient plant continues to grow and twist its tendrils inside Josie’s suddenly complicated life, Josie begins to realize her new neighbor knows a lot more about the vines and her bizarre new visitor than she initially lets on. There’s a reason Skelly has chosen to appear in Josie’s suddenly-blooming backyard and insists on pulling her out of her carefully kept self-isolation. All Josie has to do is figure out what that reason is—and she has only a few days to do it, or else she might find herself on the wrong side of catastrophe.
LITTLE BIRD is a story about found family, no matter how bizarre.
Freshly divorced and grieving the death of her father, Josie Lauer has caged herself inside her home. To cope with her losses, Josie follows a strict daily routine of work, playing with her dog, Po, and trying to remember to eat a decent meal—and ending each night by drinking copious amounts of vodka. In other words, she is not coping at all.
Everything changes when Josie wakes to find a small shrub has sprouted in her otherwise dirt backyard the morning after yet another bender. Within hours, the vine-like plant is running amok—and it’s brought company. The appearance of the unwieldly growth has also heralded the arrival of a busybody new neighbor who insists on thrusting herself into Josie’s life. The neighbor Josie can deal with. The talking skeleton called Skelly that has perched itself in Josie’s backyard on a throne made of vines, however, is an entirely different matter.
As the strangely sentient plant continues to grow and twist its tendrils inside Josie’s suddenly complicated life, Josie begins to realize her new neighbor knows a lot more about the vines and her bizarre new visitor than she initially lets on. There’s a reason Skelly has chosen to appear in Josie’s suddenly-blooming backyard and insists on pulling her out of her carefully kept self-isolation. All Josie has to do is figure out what that reason is—and she has only a few days to do it, or else she might find herself on the wrong side of catastrophe.
LITTLE BIRD is a story about found family, no matter how bizarre.
202 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 292 reviews
April 24, 2022
Birds of a Feather.
Josie, a crotchety, self imposed hermit has closed herself off from everyone except for interacting by email. And that’s only for her business dispensing advice and professional problem solving to her customers so they can deal with THEIR surly clients.
The wit, the irony! I was beside myself sniggering while I read this because Josie herself couldn’t have been more bad-tempered.
Disdain for everyone except her little dog Po, Josie spends her free time away from her computer drinking. Po is the only reason she goes outside.
When an infestation of weeds and vines begin growing in her backyard, it coincides with the appearance of a new nosy neighbor Sue. Plus, a talking skeleton takes up residence on her back fence. All three are resistant to Josie’s irritable demands to leave.
Her interactions with the delightfully snarky skeleton made the book! The skeleton, Skelly, as she’s asked to be called, is more than a match for the sarcastic Josie and their repartee is skillful writing at its best.
However, there’s something deeper at play here. Skelly, Sue, and the increasingly invasive vines have an agenda. But what is it?
I love unique stories. Josie and her contentious relationships were illustrated perfectly and while I didn’t always like her, I was hoping she’d pull herself out of her funk.
Is there a Cozy Horror category? I don’t know if experienced Horror readers would find this satiating, but If you like to dabble, this is fun and readable without being scared out of your gourd. However, there are darker elements so it’s not completely benign.
TW for excessive alcohol consumption.
For animal lovers, Po, the adorable chihuahua comes to no harm.
Thank you to NetGalley, Tiffany Meuret, and Black Spot Books for my electronic review copy in advance of publication on June 7, 2022.
1/18/22 Edit: I couldn't stop thinking about this book so I increased my rating to five stars.
Josie, a crotchety, self imposed hermit has closed herself off from everyone except for interacting by email. And that’s only for her business dispensing advice and professional problem solving to her customers so they can deal with THEIR surly clients.
The wit, the irony! I was beside myself sniggering while I read this because Josie herself couldn’t have been more bad-tempered.
Disdain for everyone except her little dog Po, Josie spends her free time away from her computer drinking. Po is the only reason she goes outside.
When an infestation of weeds and vines begin growing in her backyard, it coincides with the appearance of a new nosy neighbor Sue. Plus, a talking skeleton takes up residence on her back fence. All three are resistant to Josie’s irritable demands to leave.
Her interactions with the delightfully snarky skeleton made the book! The skeleton, Skelly, as she’s asked to be called, is more than a match for the sarcastic Josie and their repartee is skillful writing at its best.
However, there’s something deeper at play here. Skelly, Sue, and the increasingly invasive vines have an agenda. But what is it?
I love unique stories. Josie and her contentious relationships were illustrated perfectly and while I didn’t always like her, I was hoping she’d pull herself out of her funk.
Is there a Cozy Horror category? I don’t know if experienced Horror readers would find this satiating, but If you like to dabble, this is fun and readable without being scared out of your gourd. However, there are darker elements so it’s not completely benign.
TW for excessive alcohol consumption.
For animal lovers, Po, the adorable chihuahua comes to no harm.
Thank you to NetGalley, Tiffany Meuret, and Black Spot Books for my electronic review copy in advance of publication on June 7, 2022.
1/18/22 Edit: I couldn't stop thinking about this book so I increased my rating to five stars.
December 29, 2021
4.5 Stars
Wow! This book was a surprise! The cover is what originally grabbed my attention, but as soon as I started reading the book, I didn’t want to put it down. I will definitely be adding the physical copy to my collection.
The book is about Josie, Po, Skelly and Sue. I should say Po is a cute little dog, Skelly is a talking skeleton, Sue is the nosy neighbor and Josie has many issues. This book is very sad on so many levels. I’m not even sure if I totally understood all that was going on, but I still quite enjoyed it. I look forward to a slow reread and highlighting!
If you’re looking for something different, this book is the one. Some will like it some won’t. All I can say is, try the book!
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
*Thank you to Netgalley and Black Spot Books for a copy of this book.
BLOG: https://melissa413readsalot.blogspot....
Wow! This book was a surprise! The cover is what originally grabbed my attention, but as soon as I started reading the book, I didn’t want to put it down. I will definitely be adding the physical copy to my collection.
The book is about Josie, Po, Skelly and Sue. I should say Po is a cute little dog, Skelly is a talking skeleton, Sue is the nosy neighbor and Josie has many issues. This book is very sad on so many levels. I’m not even sure if I totally understood all that was going on, but I still quite enjoyed it. I look forward to a slow reread and highlighting!
If you’re looking for something different, this book is the one. Some will like it some won’t. All I can say is, try the book!
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
*Thank you to Netgalley and Black Spot Books for a copy of this book.
BLOG: https://melissa413readsalot.blogspot....
January 28, 2022
A weird little book.
A little over 200 pages, makes for a shorter read. It does have some memorable characters.
*Josie- Hold up in her home while grieving her losses. She is a bit of a mess, a cynic who has a penchant for cheap vodka. A sort of spinster who works from her computer at home.
*Po- Josie's adorable chihuaha who keeps Josie company. Aww......
*Skelly- A talking, passive aggressive skeleton who looks like a Halloween character, a fake. She appears one day as an intruder in her backyard. She is there to help Josie with some life lessons (not kidding).
*Marie- Annoying, nosy neighbor who really doesn't care about Josie's aloofness. She never hesitates to knock/bang on her door. She is persistant.
What a strange story! Some aggressive vines start winding around and taking over Josie's backyard (and her life). They were like stalker plants, taking over her lovely home! I enjoyed parts, while other parts were just too wordy (Skelly and her long winded commentary). I also enjoyed the format of eight days, each chapter it's own day.
Reminded me a bit of Yard Work by David Koepp (I listened via audible), except not nearly as creepy. In fact, it wasn't the least bit scary and I wouldn't call it horror at all. To me, it is more fantasy fiction, with a illusion like story. Again, weird, so if you are up for something different, this is that!
Thanks to NG and the publisher for my early copy! OUT March 8, 2022
A little over 200 pages, makes for a shorter read. It does have some memorable characters.
*Josie- Hold up in her home while grieving her losses. She is a bit of a mess, a cynic who has a penchant for cheap vodka. A sort of spinster who works from her computer at home.
*Po- Josie's adorable chihuaha who keeps Josie company. Aww......
*Skelly- A talking, passive aggressive skeleton who looks like a Halloween character, a fake. She appears one day as an intruder in her backyard. She is there to help Josie with some life lessons (not kidding).
*Marie- Annoying, nosy neighbor who really doesn't care about Josie's aloofness. She never hesitates to knock/bang on her door. She is persistant.
What a strange story! Some aggressive vines start winding around and taking over Josie's backyard (and her life). They were like stalker plants, taking over her lovely home! I enjoyed parts, while other parts were just too wordy (Skelly and her long winded commentary). I also enjoyed the format of eight days, each chapter it's own day.
Reminded me a bit of Yard Work by David Koepp (I listened via audible), except not nearly as creepy. In fact, it wasn't the least bit scary and I wouldn't call it horror at all. To me, it is more fantasy fiction, with a illusion like story. Again, weird, so if you are up for something different, this is that!
Thanks to NG and the publisher for my early copy! OUT March 8, 2022
May 17, 2022
Well that something completely different. I don’t know what box to put it in - comedy horror (it was amusing in parts), cosy horror, fantasy? It was certainly not scary or creepy. It was just…different!
Josie is an embittered, curmudgeonly woman approaching middle age. She misses her dear departed father intensely. She does not miss her ex husband Stuart. Josie lives alone apart from her beloved little dog Po. And vodka, she has a lot of vodka in her life. She revels in her aloneness and earns her living online as some sort of customer relations advisor, I wasn’t ever really sure what that role entailed but it’s not important. She rarely leaves the house, gets her groceries delivered and that’s just the way she likes it.
Poor Josie’s life is turned upside down when a new neighbour moves in and has the temerity to knock on her door - shock horror! Then the uninterrupted barrenness of her back garden is interrupted by a vine that has sprouted literally overnight. This vine grows out of control and soon it is accompanied by a talking skeleton (call me as Skelly) who seems to have some sort of mission for Josie but talks in riddles. Josie doesn’t want a bar of all this but Skelly and the vine are persistent and soon Josie learns more about herself than she is comfortable with.
I didn’t love this book but I didn’t hate it either. It was kind of interesting. Josie was an interesting character, she could have been any one of us if our circumstances were similar. The dialogue was certainly crisp and snarky which I enjoyed. I’m not sure what Skelly was supposed to be though, maybe I missed something in the reading, but that is why I couldn’t rate the book any higher. Nevertheless if you are into speculative fiction or just want something a bit out of left field you might well enjoy this book. It was a fairly quick read. Many thanks to Netgalley and Black Spot Books for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
3.5 rounded up.
Josie is an embittered, curmudgeonly woman approaching middle age. She misses her dear departed father intensely. She does not miss her ex husband Stuart. Josie lives alone apart from her beloved little dog Po. And vodka, she has a lot of vodka in her life. She revels in her aloneness and earns her living online as some sort of customer relations advisor, I wasn’t ever really sure what that role entailed but it’s not important. She rarely leaves the house, gets her groceries delivered and that’s just the way she likes it.
Poor Josie’s life is turned upside down when a new neighbour moves in and has the temerity to knock on her door - shock horror! Then the uninterrupted barrenness of her back garden is interrupted by a vine that has sprouted literally overnight. This vine grows out of control and soon it is accompanied by a talking skeleton (call me as Skelly) who seems to have some sort of mission for Josie but talks in riddles. Josie doesn’t want a bar of all this but Skelly and the vine are persistent and soon Josie learns more about herself than she is comfortable with.
I didn’t love this book but I didn’t hate it either. It was kind of interesting. Josie was an interesting character, she could have been any one of us if our circumstances were similar. The dialogue was certainly crisp and snarky which I enjoyed. I’m not sure what Skelly was supposed to be though, maybe I missed something in the reading, but that is why I couldn’t rate the book any higher. Nevertheless if you are into speculative fiction or just want something a bit out of left field you might well enjoy this book. It was a fairly quick read. Many thanks to Netgalley and Black Spot Books for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
3.5 rounded up.
January 10, 2022
Little Bird
by Tiffany Meuret
This is another amazing NetGalley book! I want to thank them and the publisher for letting me read this terrific fantasy! Wow!
A gal with her little dog Po keeps to the house and she works from there. She doesn't venture out. She drinks, a lot. Her father died and she just couldn't cope. She drove away everyone with her drinking, mother, husband, and friends.
She doesn't even keep up with her yard. Dry and barren. Until it wasn't.
A vine popped up. Then more. Along with it came a skeleton. Then it began to talk with her. About the same time, a nosy neighbor moved in.
She knows what is happening.
This book reveals itself like the flowers on the vines. Slowly, beautifully, and tantalizing the reader! A true delight!
by Tiffany Meuret
This is another amazing NetGalley book! I want to thank them and the publisher for letting me read this terrific fantasy! Wow!
A gal with her little dog Po keeps to the house and she works from there. She doesn't venture out. She drinks, a lot. Her father died and she just couldn't cope. She drove away everyone with her drinking, mother, husband, and friends.
She doesn't even keep up with her yard. Dry and barren. Until it wasn't.
A vine popped up. Then more. Along with it came a skeleton. Then it began to talk with her. About the same time, a nosy neighbor moved in.
She knows what is happening.
This book reveals itself like the flowers on the vines. Slowly, beautifully, and tantalizing the reader! A true delight!
September 10, 2022
“We may not always be aware of the energy we force upon the world, but that doesn’t release us of our responsibility to it.”
A wonderfully bizarre story filled with the mundanity of life and the unapologetic ugly truth of grief at the bottom of a vodka bottle.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐉𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐟𝐥𝐚𝐰𝐞𝐝 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐡𝐨'𝐬 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐝𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧, when her miserable life routine is interrupted by a vine-like plant growing wildly in her backyard creating a throne for a sentient skeleton.
Curiouser and curiouser indeed. We follow her on a philosophical journey where she discover what it means to truly be alive and the importance of human connection.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐤𝐲, 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐤𝐲, 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐲, 𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢'𝐯𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐚𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞. 𝐈𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐫 𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠. While the cover gives a macabre and horror vibe, the story is neither, it's character driven with magical realism. Even though i don't consider this book to be a dark fantasy, i'd still tag it as dark for it's grief, depression and drinking themes.
“You can guess what happens next, can’t you Little Bird? You know how these stories go because they aren’t new. They are the oldest kind known to man, and the most potent of all, no matter the age. Perhaps that is why they persist, they endure. Because they are everything a soul, a heart, humanity broken and raw. These are the stories that crack you open like a soft egg, don’t they Little Bird? They touch the one thing all humans have in common, and they sting, no matter how far removed one might be from the characters.”
A wonderfully bizarre story filled with the mundanity of life and the unapologetic ugly truth of grief at the bottom of a vodka bottle.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐉𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐟𝐥𝐚𝐰𝐞𝐝 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐡𝐨'𝐬 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐝𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧, when her miserable life routine is interrupted by a vine-like plant growing wildly in her backyard creating a throne for a sentient skeleton.
Curiouser and curiouser indeed. We follow her on a philosophical journey where she discover what it means to truly be alive and the importance of human connection.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐤𝐲, 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐤𝐲, 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐲, 𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢'𝐯𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐚𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞. 𝐈𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐫 𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠. While the cover gives a macabre and horror vibe, the story is neither, it's character driven with magical realism. Even though i don't consider this book to be a dark fantasy, i'd still tag it as dark for it's grief, depression and drinking themes.
“You can guess what happens next, can’t you Little Bird? You know how these stories go because they aren’t new. They are the oldest kind known to man, and the most potent of all, no matter the age. Perhaps that is why they persist, they endure. Because they are everything a soul, a heart, humanity broken and raw. These are the stories that crack you open like a soft egg, don’t they Little Bird? They touch the one thing all humans have in common, and they sting, no matter how far removed one might be from the characters.”
March 12, 2022
TA-DA!!
A blurb that gives away nothing of what the author has conceptualized and a freaky skeleton staring out of all the green vines, does it scream HORROR to you? Lured in by that beautiful cover image made me realize how terribly wrong one’s expectation can be!
To say Josie is struggling would be a gross understatement. A loner who loves being a recluse with minimal contact with the outer world, Josie’s idea of coping mechanism is found inside an alcohol bottle. She works from home catering to that niche profile of being a middleman or a problem negotiator thru emails soothing the tempers of clients and service providers. Honestly, her character is such no one would willingly offer her any sort of job to negotiate. Her sarcastic, cynical and sometimes obnoxious attitude towards all and sundry makes her the last person to do the kind of job she does but she gets it done. It is the arrival of new neighbors both in the garden of her home and the next door that spoils her lonesome existence and when both parties refuse to cater to her GET OUT OF MY PREMISES viewpoint, Josie has a tough fight in her hands.
Little Bird is not horror or at least not the kind of horror I am used to, it has magical realism intertwined thru the story like the vines twisting around Josie’s house and the hilarious banter between Josie and Skelly the skeleton was a riot to read. Skelly imparts life lessons to Josie thru stories which felt long-winded but I loved how the author captivates the reader thru them. One can read the book just for the witty one-liners between the snarky skeleton and the bitter and irascible Josie. The chihuahua Po was so adorable and it was so endearing to see that the dog was the sole raison d'etre for Josie.
For all fans of books that offer something DIFFERENT, Tiffany Meuret’s Little Bird is a perfect read. There is a sense of sadness as Skelly narrates her stories but the scary scenes are minimal and it would be a good choice for all who love a quirky read. The alcoholism and the overpowering grief mentioned in the book could be potential triggers for many, so fair warning to readers who have issues with the same.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Black Spot Books, IBPA, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog Rain'n'Books, ##Goodreads, ##Amazon India, ##Book Bub, ##Medium.com, ##Facebook, ##Twitter.
A blurb that gives away nothing of what the author has conceptualized and a freaky skeleton staring out of all the green vines, does it scream HORROR to you? Lured in by that beautiful cover image made me realize how terribly wrong one’s expectation can be!
To say Josie is struggling would be a gross understatement. A loner who loves being a recluse with minimal contact with the outer world, Josie’s idea of coping mechanism is found inside an alcohol bottle. She works from home catering to that niche profile of being a middleman or a problem negotiator thru emails soothing the tempers of clients and service providers. Honestly, her character is such no one would willingly offer her any sort of job to negotiate. Her sarcastic, cynical and sometimes obnoxious attitude towards all and sundry makes her the last person to do the kind of job she does but she gets it done. It is the arrival of new neighbors both in the garden of her home and the next door that spoils her lonesome existence and when both parties refuse to cater to her GET OUT OF MY PREMISES viewpoint, Josie has a tough fight in her hands.
Little Bird is not horror or at least not the kind of horror I am used to, it has magical realism intertwined thru the story like the vines twisting around Josie’s house and the hilarious banter between Josie and Skelly the skeleton was a riot to read. Skelly imparts life lessons to Josie thru stories which felt long-winded but I loved how the author captivates the reader thru them. One can read the book just for the witty one-liners between the snarky skeleton and the bitter and irascible Josie. The chihuahua Po was so adorable and it was so endearing to see that the dog was the sole raison d'etre for Josie.
For all fans of books that offer something DIFFERENT, Tiffany Meuret’s Little Bird is a perfect read. There is a sense of sadness as Skelly narrates her stories but the scary scenes are minimal and it would be a good choice for all who love a quirky read. The alcoholism and the overpowering grief mentioned in the book could be potential triggers for many, so fair warning to readers who have issues with the same.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Black Spot Books, IBPA, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog Rain'n'Books, ##Goodreads, ##Amazon India, ##Book Bub, ##Medium.com, ##Facebook, ##Twitter.
March 25, 2022
3.5...well that was rather strange & different! (my fav character was Po, the little dog) My thanks to Net Galley & the publisher for the DRC
January 14, 2022
This was a relatively quick read. Told over the course of about eight days, recently divorced Josie Lauer is grieving the loss of her father. She has not been coping well. As a result, Josie isolates herself in her home with her small dog Po, and bottles of vodka to keep her company.
Josie wakes up one morning to find that a small green bush has popped up in the middle of her dirt pit of a yard. It doesn’t take long for this tiny plant to grow and cover the yard in vines. Cue the nosey neighbor. Sue has recently moved to the neighborhood and has taken a keen interest in Josie and her plant problems. She frequently tries to insert herself in Josie’s business.
The vines continue to take over the yard and this is where the story takes a unique turn. Seated in the middle of the vines is a skeleton named Skelly. Skelly begins talking to Josie.
Things only get stranger from there. Without spoiling the rest of the book, I think this is one that you just have to read for yourself. It was an ok read. I’m still unsure about what I read and will probably be thinking about it for awhile.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Josie wakes up one morning to find that a small green bush has popped up in the middle of her dirt pit of a yard. It doesn’t take long for this tiny plant to grow and cover the yard in vines. Cue the nosey neighbor. Sue has recently moved to the neighborhood and has taken a keen interest in Josie and her plant problems. She frequently tries to insert herself in Josie’s business.
The vines continue to take over the yard and this is where the story takes a unique turn. Seated in the middle of the vines is a skeleton named Skelly. Skelly begins talking to Josie.
Things only get stranger from there. Without spoiling the rest of the book, I think this is one that you just have to read for yourself. It was an ok read. I’m still unsure about what I read and will probably be thinking about it for awhile.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
January 10, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This was very strange...but not in a bad way. Just strange.
Little Bird is about middle aged Josie, a white woman who owns a freelance company that settles customer disputes. Josie has been hit hard by the death of her father and dissolution of her marriage. To cope, Josie spends most her time working, playing with her dog and drinks copious amounts of vodka. One day, Josie notices a new vine plant has sprouted in her yard and a new neighbor has moved in. Then a magical skull comes with it as the plant continues to grow. Josie knows something big is about to happen, but she's not sure what it is or why it's picked her.
This was a very atmospheric story. The creepy element of the menacing and magical skull/skeleton was done so well. I liked how there was always tension in the scenes. Josie was an interesting character, though her alcoholism didn't really endear her to me. I didn't hate her either, I just felt like she was letting her life spin out of control because she didn't know how to do anything else. Really, she probably needed some therapy.
The ending was not something I guessed would happen, but it made a lot of sense. I liked that Josie eventually befriends her nosy neighbor, Sue. Sue was such a sweetheart and tries to take care of everyone. I liked the dynamic between these two even when Josie was a huge grump to her.
Overall, this was interesting but strange. I would recommend this to people who enjoy character driven stories.
Rep: white alcoholic female MC, female skeleton side character (like literally a skeleton), white female side character.
CWs: Alcohol consumption, alcoholism, grief. Moderate: death, death of parent, terminal illness (all happened before start of book, mentioned as flashbacks).
This was very strange...but not in a bad way. Just strange.
Little Bird is about middle aged Josie, a white woman who owns a freelance company that settles customer disputes. Josie has been hit hard by the death of her father and dissolution of her marriage. To cope, Josie spends most her time working, playing with her dog and drinks copious amounts of vodka. One day, Josie notices a new vine plant has sprouted in her yard and a new neighbor has moved in. Then a magical skull comes with it as the plant continues to grow. Josie knows something big is about to happen, but she's not sure what it is or why it's picked her.
This was a very atmospheric story. The creepy element of the menacing and magical skull/skeleton was done so well. I liked how there was always tension in the scenes. Josie was an interesting character, though her alcoholism didn't really endear her to me. I didn't hate her either, I just felt like she was letting her life spin out of control because she didn't know how to do anything else. Really, she probably needed some therapy.
The ending was not something I guessed would happen, but it made a lot of sense. I liked that Josie eventually befriends her nosy neighbor, Sue. Sue was such a sweetheart and tries to take care of everyone. I liked the dynamic between these two even when Josie was a huge grump to her.
Overall, this was interesting but strange. I would recommend this to people who enjoy character driven stories.
Rep: white alcoholic female MC, female skeleton side character (like literally a skeleton), white female side character.
CWs: Alcohol consumption, alcoholism, grief. Moderate: death, death of parent, terminal illness (all happened before start of book, mentioned as flashbacks).
March 1, 2022
The cover caught my eye - very intriguing. I went into this blind, purposefully avoiding reading the synopsis or any reviews beforehand. I was delighted to find a compelling tale, complete with a chihuahua named Po. (I happen to love Chihuahuas and the description of his little chi daily activities was spot on.)
A talking skeleton, a mysterious neighbor, and an alcoholic self-loathing protagonist is a bit of a strange combination but it works. Some reviewers said they were disappointed because it wasn't "horror." To me it's more magical realism and there was a melancholy to it that made me reflect on my own life. I enjoyed this very much. It's a quick read and such a pleasant way to spend a day.
I know I am not talking about the plot, but if you want to know about it, you can read other reviews. Or, just pick it up and begin reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
A talking skeleton, a mysterious neighbor, and an alcoholic self-loathing protagonist is a bit of a strange combination but it works. Some reviewers said they were disappointed because it wasn't "horror." To me it's more magical realism and there was a melancholy to it that made me reflect on my own life. I enjoyed this very much. It's a quick read and such a pleasant way to spend a day.
I know I am not talking about the plot, but if you want to know about it, you can read other reviews. Or, just pick it up and begin reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Read
January 31, 2022DNF @ 30%. Just exhausting. I really don't have anything good to say. I am not the reader for this one.
May 30, 2022
Genre: Magical Realism
Type: Standalone
POV: Third Person
Rating:
3.75 Stars
After losing her marriage and her father, Josie Lauer’s life quickly headed down the rabbit hole. With only her chihuahua and vodka for company, she tried to maintain a somewhat normal albeit recluse life. That was until a skeleton, and a nosy new neighbor settled in and forced her to face her reality.
I’m in love with the book cover. It was what made me pick up the book and found the elements perfectly fit the story.
One word to describe this book is weird, with a talking skeleton and living vines constantly creeping into Josie’s life. I liked the characters even though they can be quite invasive. The story was more philosophical and introspective than straightforward.
Little Bird is a story of finding one’s purpose. It would appeal to readers who enjoy a quick magical realism story.
🌷🕊🌷. . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC . . . 🌷🕊🌷
For more reviews/interviews/book talk/promo visit:
Type: Standalone
POV: Third Person
Rating:
3.75 StarsAfter losing her marriage and her father, Josie Lauer’s life quickly headed down the rabbit hole. With only her chihuahua and vodka for company, she tried to maintain a somewhat normal albeit recluse life. That was until a skeleton, and a nosy new neighbor settled in and forced her to face her reality.
I’m in love with the book cover. It was what made me pick up the book and found the elements perfectly fit the story.
This little life was hers, and now this Skelly drops in and wants a piece of it.
One word to describe this book is weird, with a talking skeleton and living vines constantly creeping into Josie’s life. I liked the characters even though they can be quite invasive. The story was more philosophical and introspective than straightforward.
Little Bird is a story of finding one’s purpose. It would appeal to readers who enjoy a quick magical realism story.
🌷🕊🌷. . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC . . . 🌷🕊🌷
For more reviews/interviews/book talk/promo visit:
January 6, 2022
I am really having a hard time putting into words on how much I enjoyed this story. Josie was a very relatable character and I really could see myself in her. From her not wanting to leave the house to her mental issues. There are days I don't want to leave the house and deal with people.. I really don't know how much I can say without spoiling it. I don't know if this was Tiffany Meuret intent but I felt like this was showing how dark and alone mental illness can make you feel. Like the vines closing in on you in your brain. I will be buying a physical copy of this book once it comes out, I can see myself rereading this over and over again. I will also recommend this book to all my friends and family. Thank you Black Spot Books, , Netgalley and Tiffany Meuret letting read and review this book.
February 27, 2022
Josie is the perfect neighbor. She never makes a fuss over anything and you hardly ever see her. Grieving the loss of her father and trying to find her way through divorced life, she may be a bit of an alcoholic too. Then the talking, animated life size skeleton shows up in her back yard.
This book was ok. Josie was a difficult character to like. She was realistic and flawed but didn't have any redeeming qualities. We really only have 4 characters - Josie, her dog Po, Sue the neighbor and Skelly the talking skeleton. They were all just ok. The setting was confined to her house and backyard. Not much happens for a big part of the book, just Josie being rude and hateful to everyone expect her dog. The story was ok. There could've been a little more excitement there.
Based on this book (love the cover!) I would read more by this author.
This book was ok. Josie was a difficult character to like. She was realistic and flawed but didn't have any redeeming qualities. We really only have 4 characters - Josie, her dog Po, Sue the neighbor and Skelly the talking skeleton. They were all just ok. The setting was confined to her house and backyard. Not much happens for a big part of the book, just Josie being rude and hateful to everyone expect her dog. The story was ok. There could've been a little more excitement there.
Based on this book (love the cover!) I would read more by this author.
June 22, 2022
⭐⭐⭐ -- beautiful cover!
Soooo...I am not really sure what to say about this book. I didn't hate it; I didn't love it. I just sort of feel I missed the point of it, maybe?? 🤷🏻♀️ It was certainly a different type of book than I usually read. It's a relatively short book that i finished all in one go and I enjoyed the characters a lot. I guess i am just confused about what it was about. Or maybe what the point was? 🤔
**ARC Via NetGalley**
Soooo...I am not really sure what to say about this book. I didn't hate it; I didn't love it. I just sort of feel I missed the point of it, maybe?? 🤷🏻♀️ It was certainly a different type of book than I usually read. It's a relatively short book that i finished all in one go and I enjoyed the characters a lot. I guess i am just confused about what it was about. Or maybe what the point was? 🤔
**ARC Via NetGalley**
January 3, 2022
On first view, this book looks like a light read, but actually beneath all the humour, is a sad little tale. Josie is in a bad space at the start of this book: grieving the death of her dad, smarting from the break up of her marriage, a functioning alcoholic who works at home on a computer and is happy to talk to no one. She does have a little dog Po however to keep her company. Thereafter the story shifts into urban fantasy in a unique and original way. Jodie’s life will never be the same again! Many thanks to Netgalley for an arc of this book.
December 15, 2021
"The cosmos cares little for our petty desires."
Josie is living her life with her dog Po and she's doing completely fine. Despite being recently divorced and despite the fact that her dad has died, she is doing completely fine. Until one day when she wakes up and finds a vine-like plant taking over her garden, oh and a talking skeleton named Skelly.
Little Bird was inexplicably good, so intriguing, and a story with so much depth. This is definitely one of those books that you'll keep thinking about after you finish it and one that you'll pick up on different aspects every time you read it. The writing was captivating and engaging. A very bizarre read and one you can't fully understand until you've read it. (I'm not sure that I'd label it as "horror" though, paranormal, definitely, but fantastical rather than scary in my opinion).
"These are our stories. Each of them the exact moments when we became what we are."
Thank you NetGalley and Black Spot Books for the e-ARC, this copy in no way influences my review or rating.
Josie is living her life with her dog Po and she's doing completely fine. Despite being recently divorced and despite the fact that her dad has died, she is doing completely fine. Until one day when she wakes up and finds a vine-like plant taking over her garden, oh and a talking skeleton named Skelly.
Little Bird was inexplicably good, so intriguing, and a story with so much depth. This is definitely one of those books that you'll keep thinking about after you finish it and one that you'll pick up on different aspects every time you read it. The writing was captivating and engaging. A very bizarre read and one you can't fully understand until you've read it. (I'm not sure that I'd label it as "horror" though, paranormal, definitely, but fantastical rather than scary in my opinion).
"These are our stories. Each of them the exact moments when we became what we are."
Thank you NetGalley and Black Spot Books for the e-ARC, this copy in no way influences my review or rating.
July 23, 2023
I have mixed feelings about this one.
I didn't love it, but I certainly didn't hate it either.
For starters, I snatched this book up before reading the synopsis because the cover is simply stunning. This probably is a good example of don't judge by the cover blah blah blah. While the cover is a solid 5, for me, I feel like the story (especially its ending) fell a bit flat.
The characters are interesting, fairly humorous, and, for the most part, entertaining. I believe I saw the book marketed as horror, and it's just not. Perhaps, if I decided to revisit with a different mindset, I might be able to enjoy it a bit more. All that aside, it's a cute but also a bit sad story. Little bird was just not what I was expecting at all.
If you're looking for a short and quirky book, then I do think it may be worth picking this book up. If you are a die-hard horror fan, you will be extremely let down.
I didn't love it, but I certainly didn't hate it either.
For starters, I snatched this book up before reading the synopsis because the cover is simply stunning. This probably is a good example of don't judge by the cover blah blah blah. While the cover is a solid 5, for me, I feel like the story (especially its ending) fell a bit flat.
The characters are interesting, fairly humorous, and, for the most part, entertaining. I believe I saw the book marketed as horror, and it's just not. Perhaps, if I decided to revisit with a different mindset, I might be able to enjoy it a bit more. All that aside, it's a cute but also a bit sad story. Little bird was just not what I was expecting at all.
If you're looking for a short and quirky book, then I do think it may be worth picking this book up. If you are a die-hard horror fan, you will be extremely let down.
Want to read
February 24, 2022This sounds weird, I like weird. That's all I have to say at this time.
Sometimes you've got to go with your gut, and mine says that this one will be a winner.
Thank you to the publisher for my copy in exchange for an honest review
Sometimes you've got to go with your gut, and mine says that this one will be a winner.
Thank you to the publisher for my copy in exchange for an honest review
January 9, 2022
This one had me from the very start. First the cover, and then the story. An extremely flawed main character, her tiny and loyal dog, a new neighbor named Sue, and oh yeah, a skeleton named Skelly in the backyard. The author has a real talent for characters, and I felt a familiarity with the location, which was confirmed when I saw the author is from Phoenix. I loved watching Josie move from total self destruction to self awareness, with her little dog Po at her side. What can I say, I'm a total sucker for a dog sidekick.
As a horror fan, I can't say that there was anything truly terrifying here, but the paranormal elements of the story were interesting and kept me so involved in the story that I finished it in two days. I also really appreciated the moments of humor within what could have been a very bleak narrative involving grief and alcoholism. I actually laughed out loud more than a few times while reading this.
I appreciate the opportunity to read and review this book, so thanks to NetGalley for introducing me to a new favorite author. I can't wait to pick up her previous book now.
As a horror fan, I can't say that there was anything truly terrifying here, but the paranormal elements of the story were interesting and kept me so involved in the story that I finished it in two days. I also really appreciated the moments of humor within what could have been a very bleak narrative involving grief and alcoholism. I actually laughed out loud more than a few times while reading this.
I appreciate the opportunity to read and review this book, so thanks to NetGalley for introducing me to a new favorite author. I can't wait to pick up her previous book now.
February 9, 2022
I wrote it. 5 stars
June 11, 2022
Trying to Put into words a review for this book for me is like trying to remember a really good dream that you didn’t want to wake up from. I picked up this book and assumed it was a horror/ fantasy novel. And while it is to some extent. It is so so so much more.
Josie is a mess, we’re talking a self deprecating, alcoholic, hermit wrapped in a heavy comfortable shroud of anxiety. Someone who is all to easy to relate to. Recently divorced and still mourning the death of her father she thinks she’s got it all figured out comfortably numb in her existence. Her only anchor to reality and her own humanity is her pup Po. Until the vines start to grow in her back yard, and the skeleton appears. The thing I keep coming back to with this little novel is the anger. Josie is so angry at the world, at life, at her mom, her ex husband, that through the majority of the story she so closed off and down right mean. It’s a relatable kind of rage that I found myself sympathizing with more than it being a turn off of her character. Her new neighbor Sue is extremely likable in a kinda nosey mother knows best sort of way. I appreciated her bluntness and direct approach during her interactions with Josie. My favorite character however was the ever enigmatic Skelly. The witty and at times down right comical dialog between her and Josie is a delight.
I really just don’t think I can properly express the depth of truth and exposure of the human condition that this novel so effortlessly pulls out. While somewhat hidden in metaphors and cryptic stories only an immortal skeleton can tell, the message will hit you in some sort of way. And it will definitely stay with you long after the last page is turned.
TW: excessive drinking, death of a parent
Josie is a mess, we’re talking a self deprecating, alcoholic, hermit wrapped in a heavy comfortable shroud of anxiety. Someone who is all to easy to relate to. Recently divorced and still mourning the death of her father she thinks she’s got it all figured out comfortably numb in her existence. Her only anchor to reality and her own humanity is her pup Po. Until the vines start to grow in her back yard, and the skeleton appears. The thing I keep coming back to with this little novel is the anger. Josie is so angry at the world, at life, at her mom, her ex husband, that through the majority of the story she so closed off and down right mean. It’s a relatable kind of rage that I found myself sympathizing with more than it being a turn off of her character. Her new neighbor Sue is extremely likable in a kinda nosey mother knows best sort of way. I appreciated her bluntness and direct approach during her interactions with Josie. My favorite character however was the ever enigmatic Skelly. The witty and at times down right comical dialog between her and Josie is a delight.
I really just don’t think I can properly express the depth of truth and exposure of the human condition that this novel so effortlessly pulls out. While somewhat hidden in metaphors and cryptic stories only an immortal skeleton can tell, the message will hit you in some sort of way. And it will definitely stay with you long after the last page is turned.
TW: excessive drinking, death of a parent
December 26, 2021
Instant cover love with this one, and an immediate fear that something horrible would befall Po, the cute little chihuahua, because past experience has taught me to never trust an author who includes a dog in their story.
Little Bird is a fairly quick read that's more magical realism and less horror/creepy than I had anticipated. In it, our alcoholic leading lady Josie is forced out of her post-divorce self isolation when she notices a weird, stubborn vine taking root in her desolate backyard. Though she applauds its tenacity, when Josie attempts to rid herself of it by cutting it free of the dusty dirt plot, an animated skeleton appears and begins making mundane conversation with her.
Po, who normally barks her head off at every little thing, isn't sound the alarm and Josie doesn't initially trust her senses. Must be the alcohol, she's hallucinating, right?! But after running inside and taking a few hesitant peeks out the window, nope, that thing is still out there, and good lord the vines are growing, stretching, taking over the backyard, and she begins to realize this is more than just a simple plant infestation.
As if that wasn't enough to rock Josie sideways, someone has just moved into the abandoned house next door and appears deadset on inserting herself into Josie's life. The timing is too conicidential, and Josie begins to wonder if there's a connection between the nosey neighbor and the strange 'Skelly' that seems to have taken up permanent residence her yard.
Cool in theory, a little clunky in execution, Little Bird started to unravel for me at the halfway mark. Much like Josie, I decided to hang in there because I was curious to see where it'd end up, though by that point I wasn't enjoying the ride as much as I had been at the beginning. And what an interesting ride it was.
Little Bird is a fairly quick read that's more magical realism and less horror/creepy than I had anticipated. In it, our alcoholic leading lady Josie is forced out of her post-divorce self isolation when she notices a weird, stubborn vine taking root in her desolate backyard. Though she applauds its tenacity, when Josie attempts to rid herself of it by cutting it free of the dusty dirt plot, an animated skeleton appears and begins making mundane conversation with her.
Po, who normally barks her head off at every little thing, isn't sound the alarm and Josie doesn't initially trust her senses. Must be the alcohol, she's hallucinating, right?! But after running inside and taking a few hesitant peeks out the window, nope, that thing is still out there, and good lord the vines are growing, stretching, taking over the backyard, and she begins to realize this is more than just a simple plant infestation.
As if that wasn't enough to rock Josie sideways, someone has just moved into the abandoned house next door and appears deadset on inserting herself into Josie's life. The timing is too conicidential, and Josie begins to wonder if there's a connection between the nosey neighbor and the strange 'Skelly' that seems to have taken up permanent residence her yard.
Cool in theory, a little clunky in execution, Little Bird started to unravel for me at the halfway mark. Much like Josie, I decided to hang in there because I was curious to see where it'd end up, though by that point I wasn't enjoying the ride as much as I had been at the beginning. And what an interesting ride it was.
February 1, 2022
Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for this arc!! Really enjoyed this one and I devoured it in a few hours. The cover attracted my attention and reading the book did not disappoint at all. This book is about Josie and a talking skeleton that appears in her backyard along with her new neighbour, Sue. It was interesting to read their banter and they definitely carried the whole story.
February 11, 2022
"Little Bird" is very different from what I normally read. I love the strong powerful message of the book regarding change. It is a short book that would be good for all to read, but many may not like or understand it. This is not a traditional horror book, but is atmospheric and has creepy elements. The book is dark, but really well written. It's not for everyone, but I would definitely recommend it to those that are amused by unusual topics. I personally really enjoyed it.
This story is about a middle aged woman named Josie. She has recently divorced and lost her dad who was her world. Since her dad's passing Josie's alcoholism has escalated. She has a dead end job and feels lost. She loves her adorable little dog named Po. She has a new neighbor named Sue that Josie perceives as a pain. Josie also has a lady skeleton living in her back yard named Skelly. As crazy as this plot sounds it is full of humor and it works!
"Little Bird" will be published June 7, 2022.
Thank you NetGalley and Black Spot Books, for allowing me to review this thought-provoking e-book. It is a great read!
This story is about a middle aged woman named Josie. She has recently divorced and lost her dad who was her world. Since her dad's passing Josie's alcoholism has escalated. She has a dead end job and feels lost. She loves her adorable little dog named Po. She has a new neighbor named Sue that Josie perceives as a pain. Josie also has a lady skeleton living in her back yard named Skelly. As crazy as this plot sounds it is full of humor and it works!
"Little Bird" will be published June 7, 2022.
Thank you NetGalley and Black Spot Books, for allowing me to review this thought-provoking e-book. It is a great read!
January 11, 2022
„She was either crazy or she was talking to the dead. Either way, she was utterly fucked.”
welp, that was disappointing…
It started off good. I sympathized with the mc and her dog and then the skeleton but then they talked about some stories and i was so uninterested that the entire thing seemed boring to me. i was waiting the entire time for something interesting to happen but nothing…
i also dont really get how its supposed to be horror when legit nothing happens except for a skeleton being in the backyard and since the first description of it was “halloween decoration “, i pictured it so uncreepy the entire time (which wasnt very helpful in such a boring story)
non of the relationships or the “character development” made sense to me. they all just seemed to act best fit for what the author wanted instead of actually making sense to the characters.
it was such a small book but still i felt like it took me ages to finish cuz nothing was going on😭 wish i would’ve just dnfed this at 25% when i wanted to…
(thanks netgalley for the book tho!!)
welp, that was disappointing…
It started off good. I sympathized with the mc and her dog and then the skeleton but then they talked about some stories and i was so uninterested that the entire thing seemed boring to me. i was waiting the entire time for something interesting to happen but nothing…
i also dont really get how its supposed to be horror when legit nothing happens except for a skeleton being in the backyard and since the first description of it was “halloween decoration “, i pictured it so uncreepy the entire time (which wasnt very helpful in such a boring story)
non of the relationships or the “character development” made sense to me. they all just seemed to act best fit for what the author wanted instead of actually making sense to the characters.
it was such a small book but still i felt like it took me ages to finish cuz nothing was going on😭 wish i would’ve just dnfed this at 25% when i wanted to…
(thanks netgalley for the book tho!!)
May 31, 2022
Advance Reader Copy provided by Black Spot Books
Review cross-posted on NetGalley
______
Is this horror? Is this fantasy? Unsure what this book categorizes itself as, but it is tiresome. I felt no chill down my spine nor goosebumps on my arm. What I did feel was annoyed. No stakes rose, no emotions stirred, except when I’m told they’re supposed to, but even then it made me want to join in the liquor-hazed stupor that Josie our MC drinks herself into. Much of the book goes treacle slow and deliberately obfuscating only to explain in a high-handed philosophical jumble that, when examined closely, felt like a whole lot of nothing. The “conflicts” are vague and arrive too late; chapters after I’ve already decided I cared for nothing and no one. I could not even bring myself to like the dog character. Read if you want to follow an unhappy person who drowns her indecision in the bottle and argues with a skeleton in navel-gazing conversations that lead to nowhere. A+ on cover design.
Review cross-posted on NetGalley
______
Is this horror? Is this fantasy? Unsure what this book categorizes itself as, but it is tiresome. I felt no chill down my spine nor goosebumps on my arm. What I did feel was annoyed. No stakes rose, no emotions stirred, except when I’m told they’re supposed to, but even then it made me want to join in the liquor-hazed stupor that Josie our MC drinks herself into. Much of the book goes treacle slow and deliberately obfuscating only to explain in a high-handed philosophical jumble that, when examined closely, felt like a whole lot of nothing. The “conflicts” are vague and arrive too late; chapters after I’ve already decided I cared for nothing and no one. I could not even bring myself to like the dog character. Read if you want to follow an unhappy person who drowns her indecision in the bottle and argues with a skeleton in navel-gazing conversations that lead to nowhere. A+ on cover design.
March 19, 2022
Finally sat down to write a review of this book!! I didn’t know what this book was about when I requested it, because all I was thinking was “wow that cover! I must have it” 😂 But I’m glad that I wasn’t disappointed with the content. If you got attracted to this book because of the cover too + if you like to read weird stories that hover between the lines of fantasy, mystery, and horror, I highly recommend this.
Little Bird was a quick read, a decently paced story told over the course of a week. Its ok if you feel a bit disoriented with talking objects and cute little things, but I assure you this book is like nothing you have read before!! Weird, different and definitely worth reading.
Thank you Black spot books via Netgalley for the reading copy!
Little Bird was a quick read, a decently paced story told over the course of a week. Its ok if you feel a bit disoriented with talking objects and cute little things, but I assure you this book is like nothing you have read before!! Weird, different and definitely worth reading.
Thank you Black spot books via Netgalley for the reading copy!
February 26, 2022
It's an interesting read, but not what I expected based on the cover and synopsis. The cover is beautiful, and when I saw it on NetGalley, I immediately hit the "request" button. I expected a creepy read; instead, I got a quirky one.
Josie Lauer would laugh at her life if it weren't so miserable. Freshly divorced, she mourns her father's death and finds relief in vodka and daily routines (work, playing with the dog, dinner, vodka). Then, one day, she discovers the vine-like plant sprouting in her backyard and running amok. To make things even stranger, the talking skeleton, Skelly, occupies the throne made of vines. Naturally, Skelly wants to talk to Josie about things (life, grief, family, etc.). And so their relationship begins.
There's also a new neighbor who seems to know quite a bit about mysterious vines and talking skeletons. The mystery is why Skelly insists on pulling Josie out of her self-isolation.
The book's tone changes from humorous to melancholy but never becomes depressing. Although Josie has a drinking problem, she doesn't wake up, wasted, in her vomit. Her issue is more about losing control of her life than the destructive effects on her health. In other words, she's not a role model, but there's no extreme content here either.
Josie's narrative is quite distinct; it's full of wit, self-deprecation, and self-mockery. Her disdain for everyone except her little dog Po makes her observations about life and others (and her circumstances) funny, but also sad. Po is the only reason she goes outside. Her snarkiness masks serious mental health problems, but also makes the read entertaining.
However, the story itself is a bit boring, especially in the middle. I admit I was expecting more horror and less pseudo-philosophical asides. Things get repetitive, and I considered stopping halfway through but decided against it. I wanted to know the ending and the resolution. I'm glad I did - the ending is gratifying and strong.
I'm not fully sold on it, but I'll tell you this. If you're looking for something different, quick to read, humorous and melancholic at the same time, you can't go wrong with it.
ARC through NetGalley
Josie Lauer would laugh at her life if it weren't so miserable. Freshly divorced, she mourns her father's death and finds relief in vodka and daily routines (work, playing with the dog, dinner, vodka). Then, one day, she discovers the vine-like plant sprouting in her backyard and running amok. To make things even stranger, the talking skeleton, Skelly, occupies the throne made of vines. Naturally, Skelly wants to talk to Josie about things (life, grief, family, etc.). And so their relationship begins.
There's also a new neighbor who seems to know quite a bit about mysterious vines and talking skeletons. The mystery is why Skelly insists on pulling Josie out of her self-isolation.
The book's tone changes from humorous to melancholy but never becomes depressing. Although Josie has a drinking problem, she doesn't wake up, wasted, in her vomit. Her issue is more about losing control of her life than the destructive effects on her health. In other words, she's not a role model, but there's no extreme content here either.
Josie's narrative is quite distinct; it's full of wit, self-deprecation, and self-mockery. Her disdain for everyone except her little dog Po makes her observations about life and others (and her circumstances) funny, but also sad. Po is the only reason she goes outside. Her snarkiness masks serious mental health problems, but also makes the read entertaining.
However, the story itself is a bit boring, especially in the middle. I admit I was expecting more horror and less pseudo-philosophical asides. Things get repetitive, and I considered stopping halfway through but decided against it. I wanted to know the ending and the resolution. I'm glad I did - the ending is gratifying and strong.
I'm not fully sold on it, but I'll tell you this. If you're looking for something different, quick to read, humorous and melancholic at the same time, you can't go wrong with it.
ARC through NetGalley
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