Yesteryear

This is possibly my favorite book of the year. It was unique, thought provoking, and not what I expected at all. It’s a long read, but I never once got bored or struggled through it. Natalie is the most unlikable character, but I found myself feeling sorry for her majority of the time. I think she is a person many women who were raised in evangelical Christian households can relate to (in a triggering way). This book may not be for everyone, but it has so many layers if you choose to peel them back.

I want to talk about Natalie for a second. Universally we can all agree that she is a bitch. She is insufferable, shallow, and cares very much about others' perception of her. I have seen her compared to Ruby Franke and also Ballerina Farms (not too familiar with them though). This would definitely cover the social media influencer aspect of her character. However, I saw her more of a result of her religious upbringing. She must (appear) to be a good wife, a good mother, a perfect picture of what a Christian woman should be. This is where my heart just HURT for her. She is a woman who doesn't know any better, so she couldn't be or do better.

In the end, you either love or hate this book...or don't even finish it.