Amanda Wen’s second book in the Sedgwick County Chronicles does not disappoint. For readers who loved Roots of Wood and Stone, The Songs That Could Have Been brings back some familiar characters. Even those readers unfamiliar with Amanda Wen’s stories will still appreciate her second novel in the series without ever feeling lost within the plot.
An intricately woven story within a story, The Songs That Could Have Been takes readers back to a time when interracial relationships were considered forbidden. Wen does a beautiful job navigating an emotionally charged issue via poignant characters with a sincere emotional connection.
Modern-day characters Lauren and Carter’s story is inexplicably tied to the past. They are drawn together by their shared history and held there while trying to unlock the secrets of Lauren’s dementia-stricken grandmother’s past.
Readers will surely relate to the fear of being hurt exhibited by both Lauren and Carter while hoping for the best possible outcome for their relationship. Through her multi-faceted characters, Wen gently introduces the reality of how impactful, harmful, and addictive eating disorders and alcoholism are.
The Songs That Could Have Been is a definite page-turner that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
***The author provided a free copy. All opinions included in this review are entirely my own.
Until Next Time,
Becky J. Miller
“Warrior Princess”