Review: The Way the World Is by Yael Politis

The Way the World Is (Olivia #2)
written by Yael Politis
published by Yael Politis

find it here: (affiliate links) Amazon, Goodreads

Why did I pick this book: I was offered a copy to review by the author. (I received a copy of this book for review purposes.)

Did I enjoy this book: Yes.

This is book two in the Olivia series. The first book was entitled, Olivia, Mourning. I loved that story. The cliffhanger in book one made it impossible to skip book two.

The Way the World Is starts off with as much excitement and drama as the first book. I was surprised by the quick turn of events and the path Olivia chooses.

The characters in this novel are rich and engaging. They all have interesting stories and personalities. They work together to move the story along smoothly.

Why 4 stars? If Olivia, Mourning was a grand slam (and in my opinion, it was), then The Way the World Is was more like a double. There’s reason to cheer, but no one makes it over home plate. At around 50% through the book, it began to drag on. Even the characters are acknowledging the boredom and tediousness of renovating the boarding house. The everyday chores of painting, learning to cook, and setting up finances made for a long, slow read. I think it’s a good clue that if your characters are bored, your readers are bored.

Would I recommend it: Yes, but go ahead and skim or skip from about 50% to about 75%.  Just know that they are setting up a boarding house, getting drunk, and talking a lot.

Will I read it again: No. But I will be on the lookout for book three.

About the book – from Goodreads: Please note that this is Book 2 of a series. While it can be read on its own, readers who begin with Book 1, Olivia, Mourning, will have a deeper understanding of the characters.

Detroit Michigan, 1842

After the devastating trauma she suffered in Olivia, Mourning and finally knowing the reality with which she must deal, Olivia strives to rebuild herself – emotionally, socially, and financially.

She starts a new life in Detroit, the young and exciting city on a river where she has come to feel at home. New friends help the healing process, while she continues her search for the two people she loves, who have disappeared from her life. She finds the greatest solace in helping fugitive slaves escape over the river to Canada. She believes, as one of her new friends says, “In this time and place it is the most worthy thing a person can do.”

Olivia remains a compelling protagonist on a journey to find a way to do the right thing in a world in which so much is wrong.