This was the first book I've read from this author and I only moderately liked it. It is about a somewhat self-centered woman who regrettably inherits her sister's three children (after she dies in a tragic accident), and is ill-equipped for the challenges that being a responsible guardian brings. I kept trying to really get into this book but I just couldn't, and consequently it will probably not be remembered for long. The story never really reached a crescendo to me. It was just about people struggling within their dysfunctional environment...trying to deal with relationship drama, as well as their own feelings about each other. I was never really pulled in and I didn't feel intensely about anyone in the story. The writing was good, and I found myself laughing out loud at times, but the story just didn't thrill me. Also, the author used too many "F" words unnecessarily, and that was becoming a bother to me as I don't feel that a truly great story needs a lot of profanity for it to be a success. It is for these reasons that I rate the book 3 stars.
The History of Us is not a memorable book, yet, it still is entertaining and modern. Stewart has a way with words to draw the reader a very vivid picture. Eloise was living her dream until she received a life-changing phone call. So she goes back home - not only for the funerals - but to get her sister's three children. Her mother can't handle the pressure of raising three grandkids, so it falls to Eloise.
Then the book jumps about seventeen years. Eloise is on the precipice of another life-changing decision. The kids are raised and she's ready to get on with her life. At this point, Stewart gives the reader a birds eye view of what is going on in their lives and how things have been. There's a family drama moment when a secret is revealed but it doesn't motivate the story. All in all, a heartwarming story about family. As the first book I've read by this author, I would definitely read another. The History of Us held my attention and I thought the characters were vividly drawn, even if I didn't like all of them.
Then the book jumps about seventeen years. Eloise is on the precipice of another life-changing decision. The kids are raised and she's ready to get on with her life. At this point, Stewart gives the reader a birds eye view of what is going on in their lives and how things have been. There's a family drama moment when a secret is revealed but it doesn't motivate the story. All in all, a heartwarming story about family. As the first book I've read by this author, I would definitely read another. The History of Us held my attention and I thought the characters were vividly drawn, even if I didn't like all of them.
