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Darling at the Campsite
When you end up back home, there’s always baggage to unpack.
Rowan Darling, an adrift thirty-three-year-old, owns a record store on a run-down block in Philadelphia.Then news of his estranged brother’s death forces a return to Maybee, Illinois, the hometown Rowan left in the dust years ago. Rowan’s plan? Dart in for the funeral, support his mother, then disappear just as quickly. Things to avoid? Margot Beckett, his childhood sweetheart, and Skid Hall, his former best friend who stole Margot and married her. Together, they’ve become the town’s “it” couple.
Unfortunately, as Rowan’s flash visit spirals beyond his control, he must face everything he’s dodged for too long. The woman he can’t have. The memory of the brother he thought he knew. His own dwindling prospects back in Philadelphia.
But Rowan also starts to see things more clearly—what’s worth fighting for, what he can let go of, how long he can keep running, and if maybe Maybee can be home again.
Rowan Darling, an adrift thirty-three-year-old, owns a record store on a run-down block in Philadelphia.Then news of his estranged brother’s death forces a return to Maybee, Illinois, the hometown Rowan left in the dust years ago. Rowan’s plan? Dart in for the funeral, support his mother, then disappear just as quickly. Things to avoid? Margot Beckett, his childhood sweetheart, and Skid Hall, his former best friend who stole Margot and married her. Together, they’ve become the town’s “it” couple.
Unfortunately, as Rowan’s flash visit spirals beyond his control, he must face everything he’s dodged for too long. The woman he can’t have. The memory of the brother he thought he knew. His own dwindling prospects back in Philadelphia.
But Rowan also starts to see things more clearly—what’s worth fighting for, what he can let go of, how long he can keep running, and if maybe Maybee can be home again.
363 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 8, 2021
205 people are currently reading
2595 people want to read
About the author
Andy Abramowitz
4 books139 followersAndy Abramowitz is the author of three novels, DARLING AT THE CAMPSITE (Lake Union, 2021), A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO FREE FALL (Lake Union, 2019), and THANK YOU, GOODNIGHT (Touchstone / Simon & Schuster 2015). A native of Baltimore, he lives with his wife, two daughters, and their bichon poodle in Philadelphia, where he enjoys classic rock, pitchers’ duels, birthday cake, the sound of a Fender Rhodes piano, and the month of October. Also, he's a lawyer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
August 8, 2021
4.5 stars
*SPOILER-FREE REVIEW* :
This book is a seamless blend of humour and melancholy. It tells the story of being thrusted back into the past and seeing that it might not be quite as you left it. It will make you tear up, unclear whether from sadness or laughter. It reads like a poignant Adam Sandler rom-com (emphasis on the com), if Adam Sandler was a record-store owner.
Speaking of record-store owners, meet our protagonist Rowan Darling, who is hilariously self-aware and often self-deprecating. He is thrown back into the very place he has been escaping all his life by a family tragedy and he finally learns of many truths of the past that changes everything...yet changing nothing.
This book takes place in first person, so we are living in Rowan's head the entire time, which was not very appealing to me in the beginning. Rowan and I got off to a pretty rough start. I was not very happy with the way he described the women around him & how self-deprecating yet stagnant he was -- I thought it would be torture to be in his head the entire time. Lo and behold, like all bad characters, it was just setting him up for an exceptional character arc.
Again, this is a very character-driven book especially in the first half. The plot wasn't exactly very present but it was very redeeming due to the hilarity. This book made me laugh out loud more times than I thought possible. I think Rowan's story would translate beautifully onto the big screen. Just when I thought a book this hilarious couldn't make me cry, there I am with two fat teardrops running down my cheeks. This book has arguably, the most well-wrapped up, full-circle ending I have ever read in a contemporary.
Andy Abramowitz's prose is phenomenal. This book is littered with quotes that are frame-worthy.
The subtle details in the writing makes for such an immersive reading experience, like I'm sitting in the Darling living room, watching everything unfold. Surreal.
I recommend this to readers who are looking for a hilarious yet moving read filled with the realness of adulthood & comic monologue.
Why deduct -0.5 stars?
I struggled in the first 150 pages and wasn't very happy with Rowan's attitude with life. He was too comical and was so unrealistically unfazed by all these big things that were happening in his life. It was like something out of a rom-com and not real life.
There was also a lot of telling from Rowan's POV so I felt like I never got to know the characters by themselves, only through what Rowan has been telling me about, which is obviously tinged with bias. Following that point, there was a lot of telling and less showing but it didn't pose as big of a problem as I expected.
I also would've loved if there were more romance (Author, if you are reading this, please write a book 2 on Rowan's romance with you-know-who, I would 100% read it. Also, please look into getting this book adapted.).
Despite all these flaws, somehow, & I'm not sure how but I think it may have to do with the exceptional writing, it worked. This book worked. This one really caught me off guard with how much I liked it. Definitely worth the read.
〖 Follow me on Instagram (@shashaybooks)! 〗
Thank you Lake Union Publishing for providing this free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
-written on May 27, 2021-
*SPOILER-FREE REVIEW* :
"Maybe there's an age after which there are no more antics, just deeds and misdeeds to be inked indelibly onto your permanent record, or maybe it's the opposite and time reduces all we do to something harmless and erasable."
This book is a seamless blend of humour and melancholy. It tells the story of being thrusted back into the past and seeing that it might not be quite as you left it. It will make you tear up, unclear whether from sadness or laughter. It reads like a poignant Adam Sandler rom-com (emphasis on the com), if Adam Sandler was a record-store owner.
Speaking of record-store owners, meet our protagonist Rowan Darling, who is hilariously self-aware and often self-deprecating. He is thrown back into the very place he has been escaping all his life by a family tragedy and he finally learns of many truths of the past that changes everything...yet changing nothing.
This book takes place in first person, so we are living in Rowan's head the entire time, which was not very appealing to me in the beginning. Rowan and I got off to a pretty rough start. I was not very happy with the way he described the women around him & how self-deprecating yet stagnant he was -- I thought it would be torture to be in his head the entire time. Lo and behold, like all bad characters, it was just setting him up for an exceptional character arc.
Again, this is a very character-driven book especially in the first half. The plot wasn't exactly very present but it was very redeeming due to the hilarity. This book made me laugh out loud more times than I thought possible. I think Rowan's story would translate beautifully onto the big screen. Just when I thought a book this hilarious couldn't make me cry, there I am with two fat teardrops running down my cheeks. This book has arguably, the most well-wrapped up, full-circle ending I have ever read in a contemporary.
Andy Abramowitz's prose is phenomenal. This book is littered with quotes that are frame-worthy.
"Time will not bring understanding. Time will only allow us to grow accustomed to not understanding."
"It's in the pulses of conversation and the interludes of silence, the notes that are played and the notes that go unplayed - that's where the knowing happens."
The subtle details in the writing makes for such an immersive reading experience, like I'm sitting in the Darling living room, watching everything unfold. Surreal.
I recommend this to readers who are looking for a hilarious yet moving read filled with the realness of adulthood & comic monologue.
Why deduct -0.5 stars?
I struggled in the first 150 pages and wasn't very happy with Rowan's attitude with life. He was too comical and was so unrealistically unfazed by all these big things that were happening in his life. It was like something out of a rom-com and not real life.
There was also a lot of telling from Rowan's POV so I felt like I never got to know the characters by themselves, only through what Rowan has been telling me about, which is obviously tinged with bias. Following that point, there was a lot of telling and less showing but it didn't pose as big of a problem as I expected.
I also would've loved if there were more romance (Author, if you are reading this, please write a book 2 on Rowan's romance with you-know-who, I would 100% read it. Also, please look into getting this book adapted.).
Despite all these flaws, somehow, & I'm not sure how but I think it may have to do with the exceptional writing, it worked. This book worked. This one really caught me off guard with how much I liked it. Definitely worth the read.
〖 Follow me on Instagram (@shashaybooks)! 〗
Thank you Lake Union Publishing for providing this free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
-written on May 27, 2021-
January 20, 2021
Loved this book. High Fidelity meets Garden State, but set in the present day (minus the pandemic). Made me laugh and cry and think.
May 13, 2021
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Darling at the Campsite is an emotional gut punch that dives into the intricacies of human relationships. The story is one we've read before (death in the family, estranged family dynamics, etc), but Andy Abramowitz writes with such beauty and grace that I was captivated from page one.
This novel really resonated with me. As the main character is dealing with the tragedy of losing a loved one, he is also struggling with friendships that he lost and this need to flee from his hometown. As the narrator dives into his own memories and the nostalgia that comes from returning 'home', I felt transported to my own past. What it feels like to sit in your old bedroom, what it feels like to stand in your old backyard, 'grown up' and different. The novel tackles that concept of growing and becoming a new person and all of the things we tend to leave behind. There is such an insightful examination of one's past in this book that really hit home for me.
Andy Abramowitz writes characters and dialogue so vividly and seamlessly. There are moments when my heart would twist because of the raw conversations happening between two characters. Like, does it help to listen to the favorite songs of our deceased loved ones? Or, what does it truly mean to lose a friend you once considered family?
For a reflective view of growing up, nostalgia, and forgiveness, I can't recommend Darling at the Campsite enough.
For so long, I thought I'd relinquished my entitlement to Maybee, that when I exiled myself, life went on here, and the people I left behind filled up the space I once occupied, got too busy to care that I hated them. But maybe that's why it's safe to come back. I'm just like them now, and they're just like me, bearing the piling on of long days and brisk minutes, good years and bad, one after the other until we can't get out from under them, can never be who we once were and can never be someone completely different.
Darling at the Campsite is an emotional gut punch that dives into the intricacies of human relationships. The story is one we've read before (death in the family, estranged family dynamics, etc), but Andy Abramowitz writes with such beauty and grace that I was captivated from page one.
This novel really resonated with me. As the main character is dealing with the tragedy of losing a loved one, he is also struggling with friendships that he lost and this need to flee from his hometown. As the narrator dives into his own memories and the nostalgia that comes from returning 'home', I felt transported to my own past. What it feels like to sit in your old bedroom, what it feels like to stand in your old backyard, 'grown up' and different. The novel tackles that concept of growing and becoming a new person and all of the things we tend to leave behind. There is such an insightful examination of one's past in this book that really hit home for me.
Andy Abramowitz writes characters and dialogue so vividly and seamlessly. There are moments when my heart would twist because of the raw conversations happening between two characters. Like, does it help to listen to the favorite songs of our deceased loved ones? Or, what does it truly mean to lose a friend you once considered family?
For a reflective view of growing up, nostalgia, and forgiveness, I can't recommend Darling at the Campsite enough.
For so long, I thought I'd relinquished my entitlement to Maybee, that when I exiled myself, life went on here, and the people I left behind filled up the space I once occupied, got too busy to care that I hated them. But maybe that's why it's safe to come back. I'm just like them now, and they're just like me, bearing the piling on of long days and brisk minutes, good years and bad, one after the other until we can't get out from under them, can never be who we once were and can never be someone completely different.
December 18, 2021
DNF @ 78%
Rowan was okay? But he wasn`t great. I felt like he rambled on about things that was of no importance A LOT. Some things I liked, where he talked about his brother. But the part about he thinking a girl was into him and stuff? Meh. But people do deal with grief differently,and maybe Rowan was in shock, wich is ofcourse understandable. I just think that I had a hard time connecting with Rowan through the book wich made me question him a lot.
I got this eARC from Netgalley.
Rowan was okay? But he wasn`t great. I felt like he rambled on about things that was of no importance A LOT. Some things I liked, where he talked about his brother. But the part about he thinking a girl was into him and stuff? Meh. But people do deal with grief differently,and maybe Rowan was in shock, wich is ofcourse understandable. I just think that I had a hard time connecting with Rowan through the book wich made me question him a lot.
I got this eARC from Netgalley.
January 29, 2022
I love this book. Maybe it is the cyncism, the sarcastic banter, the unchecked egos, the prolonged suffering due to escapism and avoiding the hard work of healing, but this book spoke to me and was easy to read.
It's not a perfect book. It isn't presented to you in a perfect little bow. The main character, Rowan Darling, was thrown back to a small town of Maybee, Illinois due to a sudden death of his older brother, Holden. Both sons left this sleepy little town for different reasons- one pursuing something bigger than himself and the other escaping betrayal, pain and anger when his best friend-seen-as-a-brother took his girlfriend. The adventurer didn't make it back and the prodigal son who did, did it out of obligation and reluctance.
This book is witnessing Rowan being thrown back into the past where time have not forgotten about him but moved on. Rowan is messy but we humans are messy creatures. There are parts that are cringy and wanted better for the characters, but I cared for the characters to want to push through.
What I loved about this book is that this was not only about interpersonal relationships but in the viewpoint of a man. This is about the intimacy between two male best friends, the relationship between two brothers (the oldest one taking on a father figure role) and the strength it takes for one to be vulnerable enough to communicate one's needs and wants.
It's not a perfect book. It isn't presented to you in a perfect little bow. The main character, Rowan Darling, was thrown back to a small town of Maybee, Illinois due to a sudden death of his older brother, Holden. Both sons left this sleepy little town for different reasons- one pursuing something bigger than himself and the other escaping betrayal, pain and anger when his best friend-seen-as-a-brother took his girlfriend. The adventurer didn't make it back and the prodigal son who did, did it out of obligation and reluctance.
This book is witnessing Rowan being thrown back into the past where time have not forgotten about him but moved on. Rowan is messy but we humans are messy creatures. There are parts that are cringy and wanted better for the characters, but I cared for the characters to want to push through.
What I loved about this book is that this was not only about interpersonal relationships but in the viewpoint of a man. This is about the intimacy between two male best friends, the relationship between two brothers (the oldest one taking on a father figure role) and the strength it takes for one to be vulnerable enough to communicate one's needs and wants.
January 18, 2022
I don't get super emotional over books easily, but that book felt as if it was written just for me, the author wrote characters so realistic that it sometimes felt creepy that it's fictional.
The way the dilemma of adulthood, victim good and forgiveness, is expressed was just thought provoking and alluring, the author made Rowan, the main character, the embodiment of what a person caged on his own thoughts looks like.
The whole package of abandonment issues and melancholy in this book is truly eye opening, the way Rowan really took steps to see through the armor he built around himself, to try to think more thoroughly in things that he just chose to run away from was so real, actually i think that's what really sucks about adulthood, whatever rules you lived by and beliefs you swore on beholding your whole life in childhood, they all get damaged in the adult world, and with them sometimes your self worth gets damaged all along, the decision to step back and reflect on all that, that's the key to feel lighter, it's called growing up ❤️
* Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review*
The way the dilemma of adulthood, victim good and forgiveness, is expressed was just thought provoking and alluring, the author made Rowan, the main character, the embodiment of what a person caged on his own thoughts looks like.
The whole package of abandonment issues and melancholy in this book is truly eye opening, the way Rowan really took steps to see through the armor he built around himself, to try to think more thoroughly in things that he just chose to run away from was so real, actually i think that's what really sucks about adulthood, whatever rules you lived by and beliefs you swore on beholding your whole life in childhood, they all get damaged in the adult world, and with them sometimes your self worth gets damaged all along, the decision to step back and reflect on all that, that's the key to feel lighter, it's called growing up ❤️
* Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review*
June 8, 2021
I devoured this book in a day, and it was my favorite of the three this author has written. I loved the writing, the way the author captures the blurred lines between the present and the past, and the author’s quiet yet spot-on observations about both the everyday and the big picture. The story is compelling and one that is universally relatable (even if your best friend didn’t hook up with your significant other) because it is about family, friendship, love, forgiveness, the paths that were taken and those that were not. I rooted for these characters from start to finish, hoping they all would find their way. And as a bonus, music lovers will appreciate the many singers and songs that make appearances throughout the book; the literary references are fun too. Highly recommend this one!
June 10, 2021
This caught my eye on the GR Giveaways. I can't believe I actually won a copy! It's been awhile since I've won a giveaway here. I skimmed the quick blurb, but I was a little surprised this has nothing to do with camping.
I have to say, this book definitely made me feel my age. The angst of a 33 year old man, still dealing with his GF/BFF's betrayal his senior year of high school, and the internal dialog he has throughout the book tends to get a bit distracting. I found myself loosing focus a few times.
Rowan has locked down his feelings and emotions, and decided to stay in Philadelphia and open a record store with his best friend Daisy (with occasional side benefits) after college. To say things in his life are not currently going well, is an an understatement. A call from his mom knocks his world off it's axis, and he's on his way home to deal with the death of his brother (who's been absent for most of his adult life), trying to avoid his betrayers, and then heading back to his dismal life as soon as it's over (as Daisy may be getting engaged).
The past 15 years has changed a lot of the landscape Rowan comes back to, and each encounter with former friends and family impacts him more than he's anticipated. This is a story of learning to let the hurt and anger go, as past recollections aren't always the facts you've believed them to be. Grieving the loss of time and memories decisions as a young adult caused you to miss out on, and embracing the current landscape with those you choose to include in it.
I loved the record store setting. I spent a LOT of time in those in my youth, and Empire Records is one of my favorite movies. It brought back found memories, but melancholy that their day in the sun has past. Also, Rowan's hometown is Illinois, so that added to the nostalgia.
I have to say, this book definitely made me feel my age. The angst of a 33 year old man, still dealing with his GF/BFF's betrayal his senior year of high school, and the internal dialog he has throughout the book tends to get a bit distracting. I found myself loosing focus a few times.
Rowan has locked down his feelings and emotions, and decided to stay in Philadelphia and open a record store with his best friend Daisy (with occasional side benefits) after college. To say things in his life are not currently going well, is an an understatement. A call from his mom knocks his world off it's axis, and he's on his way home to deal with the death of his brother (who's been absent for most of his adult life), trying to avoid his betrayers, and then heading back to his dismal life as soon as it's over (as Daisy may be getting engaged).
The past 15 years has changed a lot of the landscape Rowan comes back to, and each encounter with former friends and family impacts him more than he's anticipated. This is a story of learning to let the hurt and anger go, as past recollections aren't always the facts you've believed them to be. Grieving the loss of time and memories decisions as a young adult caused you to miss out on, and embracing the current landscape with those you choose to include in it.
I loved the record store setting. I spent a LOT of time in those in my youth, and Empire Records is one of my favorite movies. It brought back found memories, but melancholy that their day in the sun has past. Also, Rowan's hometown is Illinois, so that added to the nostalgia.
July 26, 2021
“Anyone who speaks fondly of the simplicity of youth suffers from self-induced amnesia. It’s the great lie of adulthood that childhood was easy.”
I’ve always been enamored with angst. The more pining, the more longing- the better. Typically angst and coming of age go hand and hand, but not always. Sometimes there’s the angst that comes years later, one that revolves around the path not taken and what could have been. Darling at the Campsite tackles life from this perspective.
Rowan Darling is a 30-something man-child whose never quite grown up. Years ago he left his hometown of Maybee, leaving behind all the bad memories that came with it. These days he is content running a record store whose days are numbered, as if the words “record store” didn’t tell you that already. 😉
Then Rowan gets news that his estranged brother has passed away. Now he finds himself returning to his hometown to support his mom, but unable to avoid some of the ghosts that had him flee in the first place- namely his first love who is now married to his former best friend. Ouch.
Forced to face all the the things he’s been running from for so long, Rowan does so with that perfect blend of wit and wisdom. There a lot of quotable moments in this book- some poignant, others snarky. Either way, you root for Rowan, even if he is a bit broken, maybe even more so.
Also, Rowan screamed classic John Cusack to me. Yet another road that will never be taken, but one can dream.
Thanks to @netgalley and @lakeunionauthors for a dark horse release I’ll be recommending to many of my friends!
I’ve always been enamored with angst. The more pining, the more longing- the better. Typically angst and coming of age go hand and hand, but not always. Sometimes there’s the angst that comes years later, one that revolves around the path not taken and what could have been. Darling at the Campsite tackles life from this perspective.
Rowan Darling is a 30-something man-child whose never quite grown up. Years ago he left his hometown of Maybee, leaving behind all the bad memories that came with it. These days he is content running a record store whose days are numbered, as if the words “record store” didn’t tell you that already. 😉
Then Rowan gets news that his estranged brother has passed away. Now he finds himself returning to his hometown to support his mom, but unable to avoid some of the ghosts that had him flee in the first place- namely his first love who is now married to his former best friend. Ouch.
Forced to face all the the things he’s been running from for so long, Rowan does so with that perfect blend of wit and wisdom. There a lot of quotable moments in this book- some poignant, others snarky. Either way, you root for Rowan, even if he is a bit broken, maybe even more so.
Also, Rowan screamed classic John Cusack to me. Yet another road that will never be taken, but one can dream.
Thanks to @netgalley and @lakeunionauthors for a dark horse release I’ll be recommending to many of my friends!
December 19, 2021
I felt through the entirety of this book the small town and never left vibes like a hallmark movie. Although this book I found that having a grudge that strong for 15 years is extreme due to the fact you would believe it would be forgotten and let down as other things in life become far more important than the grudge. I did find the book at first moved quite slowly and was pretty hard to get into. although the book was not in any way "bad" to me, I just couldn't say it stood out and was anything too great to me. I might have to come back to this again in a year or so and I may enjoy it more than I did at first read.
June 13, 2021
Such an incredible book. I loved each character. The character development was so detailed that I was “rooting” for each one the entire book. The ending was pure perfection!
November 19, 2021
This book was horribly sad but it managed to edge into poignant. I loved reading it even through the sadness.
December 26, 2022
— 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 —
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Darling at the Campsite
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: N/A
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): Andy Abramowitz
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Contemporary
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝: 8th June 2021
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 4/5
- dysfunctional family
- theme of grief
- character driven
- first person narrative
Rowan Darling owns his own record store with business partner Daisy, he has his mind set on its success even when it's failing miserably. Suddenly, he receives a call from his mother informing him that his older brother has died in a boating accident. Weirdly, his worst fear is going back home and seeing people from his childhood that he'd rather not see again. Namely the love of his life who betrayed him and his ex-best friend who she betrayed him with.
I was pleasantly surprised at this book, the author ensured that Rowan, the MC, was ridiculously funny, even with the darker themes of grief. The character dynamics were incredible. The repertoire between MC and Patti, his mum, oh em gee, it was my favourite.
I also enjoyed how the romance of the story wasn't the main concept but rather a side story. The character development arc of Rowan really took precedence and it was such a joy to be on his written journey with him. This book is an absolute credit to the author.
In terms of storyline, there wasn't much there, but there were satisfactory conclusions and the characters are so damn lovable that a plot didn't matter to me anyway.
🧚🏻♀️
♡ my bookstagram • my twitter ♡
↑ follow my socials for more bookish content. ↑
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Darling at the Campsite
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: N/A
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): Andy Abramowitz
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Contemporary
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝: 8th June 2021
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 4/5
- dysfunctional family
- theme of grief
- character driven
- first person narrative
"Be mindful of who you spend your time with, because it's your time, and it's all you're likely to get."
Rowan Darling owns his own record store with business partner Daisy, he has his mind set on its success even when it's failing miserably. Suddenly, he receives a call from his mother informing him that his older brother has died in a boating accident. Weirdly, his worst fear is going back home and seeing people from his childhood that he'd rather not see again. Namely the love of his life who betrayed him and his ex-best friend who she betrayed him with.
I was pleasantly surprised at this book, the author ensured that Rowan, the MC, was ridiculously funny, even with the darker themes of grief. The character dynamics were incredible. The repertoire between MC and Patti, his mum, oh em gee, it was my favourite.
I also enjoyed how the romance of the story wasn't the main concept but rather a side story. The character development arc of Rowan really took precedence and it was such a joy to be on his written journey with him. This book is an absolute credit to the author.
In terms of storyline, there wasn't much there, but there were satisfactory conclusions and the characters are so damn lovable that a plot didn't matter to me anyway.
🧚🏻♀️
♡ my bookstagram • my twitter ♡
↑ follow my socials for more bookish content. ↑
June 9, 2021
Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. I'll post that review upon publication.
Updated 6/8/21
3.5 stars
This is a quick and enjoyable - if predictable - read that will please most folks who enjoy novels about 30-something men's self-explorations.
Rowan is in his early 30s, but he is also still very much trapped in high school. Near the end of high school, readers learn very early on, Rowan loses his girlfriend and his best friend...when they find each other. So much of the novel hinges on this great event in Rowan's life, and this is surprising because it was a very long time ago. While Rowan appears stunted in many ways, it seems natural that his most believable relationship is with a 14-year-old kid. They have a lot in common emotionally and - to some degree - socially.
Also early in the novel, Rowan experiences the death of an immediate family member. The death of this person becomes the impetus for his return to the hometown he fled after the Great High School Disaster, and he predictably returns to his hometown to learn what anyone who has ever been to an AA meeting could have told him: pulling a geographic never works. You're still you no matter where you go, Buddy.
I did enjoy this novel, and Patti and Lulu are standout characters, but the love triangle storyline (from 15 years ago but also somehow still now) grew tiresome, as did Rowan's very slow growth. VERY. SLOW. He has a lot of work to do.
I'll look forward to more from Abramowitz. The style and atmosphere really work for me here, but I am happy to let Rowan grow somewhere else at this point.
Updated 6/8/21
3.5 stars
This is a quick and enjoyable - if predictable - read that will please most folks who enjoy novels about 30-something men's self-explorations.
Rowan is in his early 30s, but he is also still very much trapped in high school. Near the end of high school, readers learn very early on, Rowan loses his girlfriend and his best friend...when they find each other. So much of the novel hinges on this great event in Rowan's life, and this is surprising because it was a very long time ago. While Rowan appears stunted in many ways, it seems natural that his most believable relationship is with a 14-year-old kid. They have a lot in common emotionally and - to some degree - socially.
Also early in the novel, Rowan experiences the death of an immediate family member. The death of this person becomes the impetus for his return to the hometown he fled after the Great High School Disaster, and he predictably returns to his hometown to learn what anyone who has ever been to an AA meeting could have told him: pulling a geographic never works. You're still you no matter where you go, Buddy.
I did enjoy this novel, and Patti and Lulu are standout characters, but the love triangle storyline (from 15 years ago but also somehow still now) grew tiresome, as did Rowan's very slow growth. VERY. SLOW. He has a lot of work to do.
I'll look forward to more from Abramowitz. The style and atmosphere really work for me here, but I am happy to let Rowan grow somewhere else at this point.
March 23, 2021
Quirky With Heart. This is one of those books where it doesn't seem like much is happening other than a loveable loser continually losing... except then you find its real heart, even amidst the continual "what the fuck" situations. If you're a fan of slower paced, zany, small town explorations... you're going to love this one. If that isn't normally your thing, you should still try it out, because this is a good example of that kind of story. Because sometimes people *do* wait until they're in their 30s to find out what they really want out of life. Even if it is both the same as and yet completely different from everything they ever imagined. Very much recommended.
July 10, 2021
This was exactly the book I didn’t know I needed right now. It hit home and it hit hard. I just lost my sibling as well and Rowan’s experience definitely helped me process some things. Our tragedies may not be the same but we’re similar enough to warrant a feeling of familiar unease.
The writing here is so beautifully done. The characters are real and naturally flawed, not fake and exaggerated.
The writing here is so beautifully done. The characters are real and naturally flawed, not fake and exaggerated.
August 17, 2021
A great book at the beginning you think it’s going one place but it’s going another.
This was a great story. It is about family and love and your past versus your future. It is a story of forgiveness and going on with life. I would read the moral of the story as to live life to the fullest except your mistakes in life and MoveOn. It is a story of death and life and moving on and holding on to what is important to you. Great read!
This was a great story. It is about family and love and your past versus your future. It is a story of forgiveness and going on with life. I would read the moral of the story as to live life to the fullest except your mistakes in life and MoveOn. It is a story of death and life and moving on and holding on to what is important to you. Great read!
June 3, 2021
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this title from Lake Union Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Darling at the Campsite earned my investment right away. The prose reads effortlessly--without seeming to try to coax or convince the reader of anything. I found myself immersed in a tale where the stakes are obviously and immediately high, but with a narrator whose ease of telling made me relax into the story. This is a strength of Andy Abramowitz's. I recall the same easy, canter-like pace of writing in The Beginner's Guide to Freefall.
I am always a little wary of committing to stories that have at their center a protagonist's return to a place he or she left after a devastating betrayal because I know the pressure will be on for them to forgive said betrayal. Less capable authors can be heavy-handed with that plot point. But the craftsmanship evident in the structure, the sure-footed sentences and syntax, the subtle, deft humor and pathos of the central characters in this story were more than enough to make up for what can be a tiresome trope. Abramowitz rescues it by balancing the scales convincingly and leverages the trickster-like nature of memory to turn the concept of betrayal on its head. This forced me to rethink my loyalties and my own ideas about the protagonist, but not so much that I stopped rooting for him.
The story was ultimately redemptive and surprising. Every character was allowed complexity, no matter how minor or how seemingly incidental to the story. The resolutions felt real and earned while the overarching sadness was allowed to be there and accepted. I read this in one sitting and would happily read any other Abramowitz title on the strength of the writing in this one.
Darling at the Campsite earned my investment right away. The prose reads effortlessly--without seeming to try to coax or convince the reader of anything. I found myself immersed in a tale where the stakes are obviously and immediately high, but with a narrator whose ease of telling made me relax into the story. This is a strength of Andy Abramowitz's. I recall the same easy, canter-like pace of writing in The Beginner's Guide to Freefall.
I am always a little wary of committing to stories that have at their center a protagonist's return to a place he or she left after a devastating betrayal because I know the pressure will be on for them to forgive said betrayal. Less capable authors can be heavy-handed with that plot point. But the craftsmanship evident in the structure, the sure-footed sentences and syntax, the subtle, deft humor and pathos of the central characters in this story were more than enough to make up for what can be a tiresome trope. Abramowitz rescues it by balancing the scales convincingly and leverages the trickster-like nature of memory to turn the concept of betrayal on its head. This forced me to rethink my loyalties and my own ideas about the protagonist, but not so much that I stopped rooting for him.
The story was ultimately redemptive and surprising. Every character was allowed complexity, no matter how minor or how seemingly incidental to the story. The resolutions felt real and earned while the overarching sadness was allowed to be there and accepted. I read this in one sitting and would happily read any other Abramowitz title on the strength of the writing in this one.
June 20, 2021
Oh did I love this one. Not high literature or anything but it definitely captures a specific voice in writing- that of the humorous and self deprecating male trying to make things better in his life.
Told in the first person pov Rowan Darling has just found out that his brother has died. His brother is only 38 and has been estranged from the family for years. Rowan runs a record store with is friend Daisy (def High Fidelity vibes and is even mentioned) and is really having a meh life. He still ruminates on the fact that 15 years ago his best friend and his girlfriend admitted to him they they are a thing and soon enough after had a baby and got married and are still in the town they all grew up in. So Rowan, after high school graduation, up and left.
Just like his brother did.
And Rowan is still pretty affected by the fact that his older brother couldn't get away from the house fast enough.
And Rowan's own father died of a heart attack during his own birth so Rowan's mother Patti likes to say that her husband "died during childbirth". Patti is a delight. She comes to terms with her own parenting or perhaps lack thereof and feels guilty over her first and second son's departure.
So the bulk of the book is told over the couple days before and during his brother's funeral. Lots of stuff happens but it's not cheaply done. It's well written and pretty insightful. I really loved Abramowitz's previous novel Beginners Guide to Freefall which is a similarly told story about completely different characters (however a siblings theme is very strong here too).
Andy Abramowitz is not only a pretty great writer but he's also a practicing lawyer which I always find amazing- to have a full time job and write publishable stuff on the side.
Told in the first person pov Rowan Darling has just found out that his brother has died. His brother is only 38 and has been estranged from the family for years. Rowan runs a record store with is friend Daisy (def High Fidelity vibes and is even mentioned) and is really having a meh life. He still ruminates on the fact that 15 years ago his best friend and his girlfriend admitted to him they they are a thing and soon enough after had a baby and got married and are still in the town they all grew up in. So Rowan, after high school graduation, up and left.
Just like his brother did.
And Rowan is still pretty affected by the fact that his older brother couldn't get away from the house fast enough.
And Rowan's own father died of a heart attack during his own birth so Rowan's mother Patti likes to say that her husband "died during childbirth". Patti is a delight. She comes to terms with her own parenting or perhaps lack thereof and feels guilty over her first and second son's departure.
So the bulk of the book is told over the couple days before and during his brother's funeral. Lots of stuff happens but it's not cheaply done. It's well written and pretty insightful. I really loved Abramowitz's previous novel Beginners Guide to Freefall which is a similarly told story about completely different characters (however a siblings theme is very strong here too).
Andy Abramowitz is not only a pretty great writer but he's also a practicing lawyer which I always find amazing- to have a full time job and write publishable stuff on the side.
June 28, 2021
First off: there is no camping in this book. Secondly: there are no darlings in this book. Darling is the last name of the people who live(d) on a street called Campsite. Therefore, no cravings for s'mores were had during the reading of this book! Instead, I spent a lot of time with various songs playing on my phone while I read the book. Why? Because there are so many wonderful song references in this book, both mainstream and not. For me, this felt very much like a Nick Spalding story but without the quirky British humor. Instead the humor is a little blunter and a little more melancholy. The main character, Rowan Darling, and his fixation on an event that took place 15 years prior is a bit excessive and probably the only negative thing I can say about this otherwise bittersweet book chuck full of interesting and endearing characters.
Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
April 19, 2021
Darling at The Campsite
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First of all, thank you so much to Netgalley, Lake Union Publishing and Andy Abramowitz for approving my request to read this lovely book! I rated it 4 ⭐️’s!
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Darling at The Campsite really showed that you shouldn’t leave it too late to let someone know how you feel, but on the flip side, that you don’t have to figure your life out at such a young age.
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Rowan’s brother sadly dies and upon returning home for his funeral, he learns ALOT. His relationships, whether that be with family, friends or lovers aren’t what he thought them to be. His perspective has been biased based on experiences throughout his 33 years, but once he’s back in Maybee, his reunion with his past shows everything in a different light.
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This book had me hooked! I wanted to make sure Rowan got the ending I thought he deserved. I needed to know what happened! I would definitely recommend this book to others!
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First of all, thank you so much to Netgalley, Lake Union Publishing and Andy Abramowitz for approving my request to read this lovely book! I rated it 4 ⭐️’s!
.
Darling at The Campsite really showed that you shouldn’t leave it too late to let someone know how you feel, but on the flip side, that you don’t have to figure your life out at such a young age.
.
Rowan’s brother sadly dies and upon returning home for his funeral, he learns ALOT. His relationships, whether that be with family, friends or lovers aren’t what he thought them to be. His perspective has been biased based on experiences throughout his 33 years, but once he’s back in Maybee, his reunion with his past shows everything in a different light.
.
This book had me hooked! I wanted to make sure Rowan got the ending I thought he deserved. I needed to know what happened! I would definitely recommend this book to others!
July 22, 2023
Total Surprise
I can't imagine that I would buy this book, if I knew what it was about. But, am I ever glad that I did. I try to never spoil a story in my reviews, but in this particular case, if you have just lost a loved one this might be tough to read. Ironically the book is humorous, while at the same time mournful. It's not just about the loss of a family member, but its about the loss of friendship and opportunity. Grudges held for years, self exile and failing to communicate feelings. Some of the loss is resolved, but some can never be retrieved. The main character has a subtle and sometimes sarcastic sense of humor, that at times made me laugh out loud. The book is a lesson in life, that almost everyone can benefit from. If you want a break from thrillers and mysteries, "Darling at the Campsite" is a great choice.
I can't imagine that I would buy this book, if I knew what it was about. But, am I ever glad that I did. I try to never spoil a story in my reviews, but in this particular case, if you have just lost a loved one this might be tough to read. Ironically the book is humorous, while at the same time mournful. It's not just about the loss of a family member, but its about the loss of friendship and opportunity. Grudges held for years, self exile and failing to communicate feelings. Some of the loss is resolved, but some can never be retrieved. The main character has a subtle and sometimes sarcastic sense of humor, that at times made me laugh out loud. The book is a lesson in life, that almost everyone can benefit from. If you want a break from thrillers and mysteries, "Darling at the Campsite" is a great choice.
October 25, 2024
Solidly Mediocre
I have loved a handful of books similar to this one. Books by Perrotta, Tropper, and one by Norman that feature a male protagonist grappling with life, love, family, etc. While this novel followed the familiar (lad lit) premise, the execution was not up to the level of those other authors. While there were some touching moments and some lessons learned, the events in the book just lacked weight, as did the characters to an extent. Perhaps the author chose to write about issues that were too mundane, or maybe he chose to emphasize and spend time with the wrong events, but there came a time in the book where it felt tedious, and I was past ready for it to be over. That’s not to say it’s a horrible book, but it doesn’t inspire second, third, and fourth reads, and it’s never a good thing when you are done with a book with 150 or 200 pages to go.
I have loved a handful of books similar to this one. Books by Perrotta, Tropper, and one by Norman that feature a male protagonist grappling with life, love, family, etc. While this novel followed the familiar (lad lit) premise, the execution was not up to the level of those other authors. While there were some touching moments and some lessons learned, the events in the book just lacked weight, as did the characters to an extent. Perhaps the author chose to write about issues that were too mundane, or maybe he chose to emphasize and spend time with the wrong events, but there came a time in the book where it felt tedious, and I was past ready for it to be over. That’s not to say it’s a horrible book, but it doesn’t inspire second, third, and fourth reads, and it’s never a good thing when you are done with a book with 150 or 200 pages to go.
June 26, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. The author’s voice and style reminded me so much of Jonathan Tropper. (And I adore Jonathan Tropper.) Both are gifted at creating messy, relatable, fully realized characters that feel instantly recognizable, almost like they are writing about people that the reader already knows. I often find that authors - even the very best ones - have a clear strength in writing either dialogue or prose. But Abramowitz excels at both, shifting from hilarious to deeply moving, sometimes in the same paragraph. The back-and-forth character banter almost begs to be adapted to stage or screen, yet some descriptive passages I actually read aloud to my husband because they were so beautiful. I can’t wait to go back and enjoy his earlier books. Highly, highly recommend.
April 29, 2021
As a huge fan of Jonathan Tropper and mourning the fact that he's been dedicating his time to screenwriting instead of writing novels, I'm constantly seeking out authors who write similar to Tropper. That's a big ask. I read Andy Abramowitz's two previous novels and he comes really close. His writing is funny, touching and thought provoking. You can't help but root for his loveable losers. I really enjoyed Darling at the Campsite. The characters were honest, relate able and fun to get to know. I will definitely be on the lookout for more books from Andy Abramowitz. Thanks to Net Galley and Lake Union Publishing for providing me with an ARC of this book.
January 3, 2023
I absolutely loved this book! It took me a while to get my hands on a copy of Darling at the Campsite, which I was excited to read after also reading Thank You, Goodnight and A Beginner’s Guide to Free Fall a few years earlier. Just like the last two, this one has so much heart as well as humor. Some really great characters, memorable moments, funny interactions, and sweet (sometimes heart wrenching) scenes that totally had me in my feels. I absolutely loved this read and would highly recommend any and all of Andy Abramowitz’s novels. So much heart, these books inspire me. I cannot wait for whatever comes next!
November 13, 2024
I have given Darling at the Campsite by Andy Abramowitz three out of five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The autumnal vibes of this book were pleasing to read about; they made me feel super cosy at times with the descriptions used by the author. I enjoyed learning about the characters in this book and although I found it quite hard to get into the book at first, once we had found out more of the plot, I felt more engaged with reading the story.
A huge part of this story was to do with a grudge being held by our main character, Rowan and although I can sympathise to a certain extent it went on for a lot longer than I think it should have, purely because it started to get tedious. I absolutely adored Abramowitz’s humour in his writing and thought it was a refreshing read.
An emotional, open-hearted and enjoyable story with some memorable and loving characters. Overall, I’m really glad I read this book and would like to read more of Andy Abramowitz’s books in the future.
The autumnal vibes of this book were pleasing to read about; they made me feel super cosy at times with the descriptions used by the author. I enjoyed learning about the characters in this book and although I found it quite hard to get into the book at first, once we had found out more of the plot, I felt more engaged with reading the story.
A huge part of this story was to do with a grudge being held by our main character, Rowan and although I can sympathise to a certain extent it went on for a lot longer than I think it should have, purely because it started to get tedious. I absolutely adored Abramowitz’s humour in his writing and thought it was a refreshing read.
An emotional, open-hearted and enjoyable story with some memorable and loving characters. Overall, I’m really glad I read this book and would like to read more of Andy Abramowitz’s books in the future.
January 18, 2021
Abramowitz has gone and done it again. Written a book that I read in a fever to find out “what happens,” then miss the characters and start over again. And dammit if someone didn’t start cutting onions around me while I was reading!
Abramowitz has the brisk pace and wit of Hornby, but his characters are as full and likeable as Russo’s. After they’ve gone through what they need to in the novel, you’re left wishing you could visit their record store, ride their roller coaster, read their local news article, or hear a set during a beach vacation. You can’t. But you can hope that more like them will be along soon.
Abramowitz has the brisk pace and wit of Hornby, but his characters are as full and likeable as Russo’s. After they’ve gone through what they need to in the novel, you’re left wishing you could visit their record store, ride their roller coaster, read their local news article, or hear a set during a beach vacation. You can’t. But you can hope that more like them will be along soon.
June 22, 2021
In Andy Abramowitz's fictional worlds nearly every character is as cleverly quippy as Oscar Wilde. At times, this repartee undermines the more serious content of Darling at the Campsite and gives it a facetious tone. In the end, however, the novel's narrator Rowan Darling does shed much of his diffidence and wit to expose real feelings beneath his disaffection. As funny as Abramowitz's novel is, reaching Rowan's self-awareness sooner might make the book more moving.
October 7, 2021
A Great Surprise
I enjoyed his previous book and picked this up on a whim. The formula of this story works so well - Rowan gets called home after his brother’s death, but he doesn’t want to go. He hasn’t been to his small hometown for years since his best friend stole his girlfriend. Add in his love of music, odd characters, record store, and strange relationship with the store’s wacky co-owner, Daisy, and you have a lot of fun.
I truly enjoyed this book.
I enjoyed his previous book and picked this up on a whim. The formula of this story works so well - Rowan gets called home after his brother’s death, but he doesn’t want to go. He hasn’t been to his small hometown for years since his best friend stole his girlfriend. Add in his love of music, odd characters, record store, and strange relationship with the store’s wacky co-owner, Daisy, and you have a lot of fun.
I truly enjoyed this book.
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