Leave a Crooked Path

by Simone Paradis Hanson

Introducing a new voice in American Claire lives in an idyllic world surrounded by quirky neighbors in her small Maine town. Her last summer before high school should be carefree. Instead Claire must navigate the dangerous waters of a family in denial. Caught between her loving, sober father and the cruel man he becomes when he drinks, she struggles to protect the illusion of their perfect life. When a tragic accident tips this precarious balance, reality can no longer be denied. Leave a Crooked Path was short-listed for the Black Lawrence Press Big Moose Prize and was a Finalist for the Aqueous Books Flann O'Brien Award for Innovative Fiction.

158 pages, Paperback

Published September 1, 2016

Reviews

[Ashley Owens · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book intrigued me. Hanson builds the story beautifully, with the sense something dark is coming to the surface. She develops the characters naturally, you feel as if you know them. I also enjoyed the neighborhood she creates that surrounds these characters and the relationships that exist there. I highly recommend this beautifully tragic work. Looking forward to the next novel!

[Janine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent coming of age novel set in Maine. Very suspenseful. Ms. Hanson has layered her story with clues that lead to a surprise ending. Riveting and heartfelt. Her characters are believable and true.

[Jo Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that stays with you. On the surface this is a happy family living an uncomplicated life in Maine. Claire the young protagonist is beautifully drawn and the author skilfully sets up her characters. The tension increases and sinister tones are introduced. This book tackles some difficult issues with sensitivity and insight. The happy family becomes a family in crisis. A captivating story, short and succinct, poignant and fun. I can recommend it.

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book for several reasons. Simone wrote this book with characters we can all relate to whether it was a member of our family, a neighbor, a friend, coworker...the individuals in this book are describe in great detail as the story flows smoothly. The book has love, heartbreak, fear, growth, it's definitely got emotional roller coasters for some of the characters dealing with their situations. The main character struggles through love and hate for her father and deals with tragedies the best way that she can. Her mother and sister have a relationship she never will. While reading this it makes you think and feel and wonder. My favorite part of the book is the final page where it all ties together with a quote which brings the book full circle to the title. I look forward to reading more from this author based on this book. I was lucky enough to win this book in a goodreads giveaway thank you.

[Melissa Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was certainly transported in time and place with the story of Claire's family. I could really feel the tug of her love for her father and her hatred and fear of his drinking. The language of this story truly paints the conditions and feelings everyone operates with. I can see this as a healing story for many kinds of problems we have all faced.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Growing up with an alcoholic father, I could really relate to this story. When my father was sober, he was fun to be around, and always made me laugh, but those days became far and few between. My father was not abusive when he drank, but he was absent from a lot of important things in my life because of the alcohol (including missing my wedding day). I could feel the pain Claire was going through wanting to have her "old" father back.
The only part I didn't like was that the flashbacks didn't really wrap up. They just stop after "snuffy". I assumed that was when he decided to stop drinking and leads into the present tense, but I am not sure because it never mentions anything else about it.

[Lynda Haddock · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a moving and powerful story about a young woman, Claire, who lives in suburban Maine. The characters and their relationships are skilfully drawn and the novel's evocation of neighbourhood life is vivid and compelling. A gradually looming threat propels the narrative. Difficult issues and complex emotions are explored with compassion and sensitivity. The writing is confident and assured. Highly recommended!

[E.d. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Outstanding short novel about a girl and her experiences growing up with an alcoholic father. You get a real sense of place and feel for the French-Canadian atmosphere of Maine.

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wrote a review some time ago. I already said I enjoyed the book, etc.

[Bri · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way Hanson writes, really makes it feel like you are there with the characters and can see everything they see. I was pulled right into this book. It was a very quick read for me since it is fairly short. I would highly recommend this book!

[Maria Lillie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good short read. I could somewhat relate to the character. Looking forward to
more books from Simone Paradis Hanson!