I don't read many short story collections, so I'm never quite sure how to describe my feelings about them. How can you succinctly measure each of these 42 stories in one star rating? But I will say that Leesa Cross-Smith has written a collection that is boldly and unapologetically for women, diving into the female gaze, sexuality, friendship, heartache and hope with grit and grace. She allows the reader to draw many of their own conclusions (though she does return to a few characters in multiple stories, sometimes years later, other times from a different perspective, which I found very unique and well-executed) so that you can put yourself in the stories that relate. I must admit I didn't realize that so much of the collection would be centered on Southern themes and tropes (lots of talk about cowboys and taxidermy in bars and guns, which isn't really my thing) but it was my fault for not realizing that Cross-Smith is a Kentucky native, and would obviously share that perspective. If you're looking for a book by a woman, for women, delving into all the messy and magical parts of the feminine existence, this is a must-read.

4.5 Stars

This short story collection opened with a narrative poem, introducing the reader to the book's theme: womanhood. It is expertly put together this a strong cohesive theme. The mix of the narrative styles is refreshing, engaging, and a true testament to Leesa Cross-Smith's amazing skills.

We follow different women who are experiencing pivotal moments in their lives. The ages of our protagonists vary from children to elderly women. There is something universal with each story. It hits on the universal experience that comes with womanhood. All of the characters have different backgrounds, come from different socioeconomic statuses, and live different lives.

The book was a little on the cis-het spectrum with few queer perspectives. There are some mixed-raced characters, but most of the characters were assumed white or black, since their ethnic background was rarely discussed. Honestly, the vagueness of the characters' backgrounds except for clues like names, geographic locations, speaking patterns, etc. made for a more interesting read. It felt like reading anonymous diary entries, making everything universally relatable if you choose not to read too closely.

It was delightful to see the intersections between some of the characters. That is something I personally enjoy in an author's work. I will be recommending this book the second it releases. It's one of the best short story collections I've read.