This felt like an "artsy" read to me. I enjoyed it! It was full of interesting characters and I liked seeing how they developed throughout the story. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

**The Sleepers** by Matthew Gasda is a novel that explores the intertwined lives of thirty-somethings in New York City from 2016 to 2019. The main characters include Dan, a professor and writer; his partner Mariko, a struggling actress; and her sister Akari, a cinematographer. The novel primarily focuses on themes of relationships and identity.

With knife sharp, authenticity, and wit, Gasda provides an almost documentary-like portrayal of these individuals. The narrative immerses us in their lives over a few summer days and nights, offering insights into their inner thoughts. These inner monologues reveal a disconnect between who they truly are, who they aspire to be, and how others perceive them. The strain of navigating evolving relationships and the sensation of being stuck or in limbo as time passes is palpable. Gasda delves into the narratives we create about ourselves and each other along with the complexities of life.

I was genuinely impressed with Gasda’s storytelling abilities; it was both engaging and relatable. It captures a kind of disillusioned coming-of-age experience meets a pre-mid-life crisis, set against the backdrop of a country undergoing a significant cultural shift and identity transformation.

Fans of Oisin McKenna, Sally Rooney, CoCo Mellors, or Edward Albee might find this novel appealing. I highly recommend it. Thank you to NetGalley and Skyhorse Publishing | Arcade for the ARC.