I'm big fan of small town/middle America novels where characters lead unremarkable lives. But what started off as a 4* became a 3* and possible (?) 2* read.

Things soon started jumping out of the text that I found to be misogynist, ableist and racist - leading to a rather jarring and infuriating reading experience... Along with that, the book is pretty depressing, and there's little redemption to be found.

I don't mind bleak but not a fan of saccharine either. Empire Falls left me cold and unmoved, in stark contrast to how I've felt after reading books such as Stoner, and much of Kent Haruf's work, who occupy similar genres.

A shame, as with a little more compassion for its plot and characters, this book could have been a much more enjoyable experience.