And once again, Tichelaar’s signature talent for creating unforgettable characters that jump off the page is no less evident here. This author is an amazing storyteller, bringing to life not only believable characters but the history of his hometown, Marquette.

Although the book is considered a stand-alone and could be enjoyed even if you haven’t read any of the Marquette Trilogy books, I liked knowing the background and making the connection to what I had previously read. I especially liked the stories of Serena and Scofield. I also found Tichelaar’s themes bolder in this book, exploring the topics of betrayal and adultery and their effects on the parties involved. There is even a rape scene, however, it is not explicit. The title Narrow Lives is inspired from a passage of Willa Cather’s Lucy Gayheart, where it beautifully expresses the effects people have on each other in small towns.

I certainly look forward to reading more from this gifted author who has provided me with hours of reading pleasure.

Disclosure: Thanks to ReviewTheBook.com for sending this book for review. I was not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product.